The Orange band was one of the largest and most impressive brass bands in the Central West when it travelled to Bathurst, Cowra, Forbes, Canowindra and other locations in November, 1919.

There were more than 60 members, all in uniform, so it must have been a logistical nightmare to get them all transported, fed and accommodated - in some cases for two or three nights - in each town. 

Much of the time they were conveyed by horse-drawn vehicles, by motor truck or on the steam train. 

Not only local Salvation Army members, but also local residents would extend their hospitality to members of the band by putting them up in their homes.

The brass band instruments had to be polished daily and often lacquered. 

Some members had silver instruments which were made of brass but with a coating of chrome which made them easier to keep clean and shiny. Much of the cleaning was carried out by the musicians themselves.

The weekend before the Orange band's visit, the Bathurst District Band, under the conductorship of Bandmaster S. Lewins, had given a recital in Machattie Park on the Sunday afternoon. 

The attendance was large and the proceeds of a collection were to go towards the Hospital Carnival Funds. 

The hospital was attempting to raise funds, some of which was to go towards possible X-ray equipment.

The visiting Orange Salvation Army Silver Band would, on arrival, be entertained at tea in the local Salvation Army hall. 

The band would then play a number of selections in the main street or some other outdoor space, weather permitting. 

Kings Parade was a popular spot as onlookers could stand on surrounding streets to listen without getting too close. 

This would be followed by a short ordinary Saturday night meeting which would also be held in the street or a park.

Then Salvation Army members and the public would be invited to move indoors where the Orange Salvation Army Silver Band would provide a program of music under the conductorship of Colonel Albiston, who was also in charge.

The Orange Salvation Army Silver Band contained some fine instrumentalists who regularly contributed to the performances and entertainment program, though sometimes not all were able to make every trip away. 

With the band's reputation seemingly assured, a large audience usually attended the Salvation Army concerts at each venue, especially in Bathurst.

A welcome speech would invariably be extended by the local adjutant before the evening’s entertainment began with a resounding rendition of the national anthem. 

The program would include a mixture of hymns, marches, instrumental and vocal solos and duets, along with some recitations. 

At some time during the evening an address and prayers would be delivered by Colonel Albiston. 

Some of the items typically included in the evening’s entertainment would be O God Our Help In Ages Past, the marches, Gulgong and Harmonious Strains.

One of the bandsmen would usually perform a euphonium solo, and sometimes the audience would be asked to make a request if it was known by the band.