From Linwood to Nationals

Jack Gibbs, a young member of the Linwood Corps, is rapidly gaining recognition in the brass band community. The talented 14-year-old baritone player with the New Brighton Silver Band recently competed at the National Brass Band Championships, where his band won their grade – outperforming more than 110 other bands. 

Jack’s brass journey began with the Salvation Army Linwood Band, where he first picked up his father’s old instrument. His passion and potential soon led to an invitation to join the New Brighton Silver Band. “Brass taught me how to read music and gave me a really solid foundation,” Jack shares. 

What makes Jack’s accomplishments especially inspiring is that he has learned to play brass instruments while living with dyspraxia. Dyspraxia can make tasks requiring fine motor skills particularly challenging. Despite the hurdles, Jack’s determination has never wavered. “I love playing – the more I play, the more I love it,” he says. In the future, Jack hopes to earn a degree in music and to share his passion. “I’d love to help others learn like I did,” he says.