Mitcham City Brass players our Citizens of the Year
Mitcham City Brass players Ruth and Peter McIntyre are City of Mitcham’s Citizens of the Year 2026.
The Clapham musicians joined Mitcham City Brass on the same day as juniors in 1975 and have each dedicated a remarkable 50 years of service to the band.
Across five decades, as well as playing the cornet and flugel horn (Ruth) and cornet, euphonium and drums (Peter), they have volunteered behind the scenes, contributing to the success of the band’s activities in the community.
Along the way, they married, had three kids and two grandchildren.
Between them they have held many roles in the band including Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Librarian, Drum Major, Junior Musical Director and more. They each hold many service awards as well as Mitcham City Brass Life Membership.
Ruth played a key role in helping establish the Mitcham City Brass Academy, supporting young musicians and newcomers. Both played a vital role in preserving the band’s history by unearthing important documents and photographs to help celebrate its 120-year anniversary.
Peter was a part time member of the Band of the SA Police and performed at the Edinburgh Tattoo in Scotland. He has also served as SA Band Association Delegate for the past three years.
During the Covid pandemic, when they would normally play at the Colonel Light Gardens RSL Anzac Day Dawn Service, Peter and Ruth organised a spontaneous, socially distanced ceremony at their local reserve, a gesture that embodies their commitment to giving back to the community.
The Mitcham Brass Band was formed in 1878. The band performs several times a year across the city including at Carols at Kingswood Oval.