Ipswich strikes world-record note with largest trombone ensemble

Published on 12 July 2026

Ipswich has erupted into a brass‑filled celebration, with hundreds of trombonists transforming Tulmur Place into a wall of sound during SPARK Ipswich Arts Festival, a moment that may have just rewritten the record books.

Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said in a spectacular show of community spirit, the ensemble brought together musicians from schools, bands and orchestras across the region, uniting for a single history-making mass performance.

“The gathering of more than 600 trombonists here in Ipswich performing the iconic music piece 76 Trombones soared past the current record for the world’s largest trombone ensemble of 368,” Mayor Harding said.

“While we must still now wait for official verification to take place, we’re hopeful today’s attempt will be confirmed and that our community has hit a high note and broken the World Record.

“Ipswich has once again shown the world what can happen when a community comes together with passion, creativity and a willingness to dream big.

“To see hundreds of musicians of all skill levels in Tulmur Place ready to try and set a new world record is an extraordinary achievement and one that every participant, volunteer and supporter can be incredibly proud of.

“This record attempt was about much more than numbers. It was about showcasing the power of music in a city that embraces culture, supports local talent and delivers unique experiences to bring people together.

“The record attempt was a memorable finale to this year’s SPARK Ipswich Arts Festival which delivered five jam-packed days of family-friendly celebrating our people and our city.”

Ipswich City Big Band Music Director Matt Chambers organised the record attempt, with participants travelling from across South East Queensland and beyond to be part of the historic occasion.

Ipswich City Big Band Music Director Matt Chambers said he was proud of the community’s efforts.

“It was humbling to see such a huge turnout of people backing our attempt to put Ipswich on the trombone ensemble map,” Mr Chambers said.

“Whether it results in a new world record or simply shines a brighter spotlight on our creative industries, today has already been a major win for our city. The next step will be to have the record officially verified, and we will be waiting with excited anticipation to hear from them.”

The previous world record of 368 musicians was set in Washington DC in 2012. A submission has been made to Guinness World Records to have the record formally verified.