The establishment of a community based band in 1875 was largely due to the first conductor of the band, former member of the Tasmanian Legislative Council, Mr. John H. McCall. At the time, there was a need for a band to play at social functions, such as the launch of ships into the Mersey River and community gatherings. This need brought about the formation of the 'Torquay Drum and Fife Band'.

Torquay Drum & Fife Band, 1876

Back row (from left): C. McKay, C. Weller, W. Stewart, J. Dick, H. Buck, G. Robson Middle row: H. Gardam, J. Naylor, M. Connell, J.H. McCall (Bandsmaster), H. Wood, I. Chapman Front row: A. Gardam, E. Casey, W. Sayers (Bass Drum), A. Tucker, W. McKay

Since then, a number of name changes have occurred to reflect significant alterations in the band or the local community. In 1882, Richard P. Crompton took over the band and changed it to an all-brass band, so it was known as the 'Torquay Brass Band'. In 1890, the townships of Torquay (East Devonport) and Formby (Devonport) combined, which resulted in a name change to the 'Devonport Municipal Band'.

Devonport Municipal Band, 1937

Back row (from left): J. Cowan, V. White, N. Snare, D. Collins, A. Richardson, N. Smallbon Middle row: E. Rowland, W. Welling, Side Drummer (Unknown), S. Murfet (Side Drummer), Lockett, A. Hales, V. Murfet, T. Collins, J. Johnson, Ray, H. Geard, H. Lockett Front row: D. Collins, M. Dutton, J. Prouse, G. Gardner, N. Graham (Bandmaster), J.H. Henrey (President), J. Halley, J. Archer, R. Moles Foreground: K. Dunstan, E. Shackleton

And, finally when the town of Devonport reached city status in 1981, the band become known as the 'City of Devonport Brass'.

The band has also seen a number of uniform changes, from a navy blue uniform with a yellow strip down the side of the trousers and a formal hat, to its present day grey jacket with black trousers and akubra hat.