About Us

The Melbourne Rainbow Band is a community/non-profit concert band providing an opportunity for musicians to develop their musical abilities in an environment free of prejudice and discrimination, and to promote the LGBTQIA+ community to the wider population. We began in 1995 and currently have more than 75 members drawn from all walks of life.

Our members’ musical skill levels vary from beginner to professional and our players are as proudly diverse as the music we play. The MRB does not hold auditions for members and is open to all players with basic music reading and playing abilities. All are welcome as long as they are accepting, tolerant, and love music! We rehearse on Thursday nights at Prahran RSL and new members are welcome any time.

We have regular performances each year, including the Midsumma Carnival and concerts at the Victorian Pride Centre.  Generally, we also perform two ticketed showcase concerts each year, along with various community and private performances. The Melbourne Rainbow Band’s Carols by Queerlight held in December each year is one of the biggest events on the calendar. This event involves hundreds coming to the St Kilda Town Hall in order to enjoy good company, carols and a sit-down extravaganza. Though we are primarily a sit-down concert band, each Summer we take to the streets as a marching band.  We have marched in Melbourne’s Pride March every year since we began.

The MRB exists to provide a safe and enjoyable space where individuals can come and create music. We aim to perform at a strong standard, combining our musical skills and community representation to provide a unique and special experience for all.