At 104, George Franklin is months away from becoming the world's oldest conductor

By Lauren Smith

George Franklin, aged 104, could soon become the record holder for the title of the world's oldest conductor. 
(ABC News: Lauren Smith)

For most people, turning 104 is an accomplishment in itself.

For Western Australian musician George Franklin, the milestone puts him closer to another achievement: holding the record for being the world's oldest band conductor. 

Music has always played a big part in the life of Mr Franklin, who celebrated his 104th birthday on March 11 among friends and family.

He started playing the cornet at the age of seven, before joining the City of Perth Band in 1934.

Mr Franklin was the conductor of the City of Perth brass band from 1974. (ABC News: Lauren Smith)

Today Mr Franklin is their longest serving and most notable member, having conducted the brass band for decades before moving on to conducting the swing band every Monday evening. 

George Franklin conducts the City of Perth swing band every Monday evening. (ABC News: Lauren Smith)

He credits his love of music for his longevity.

"When it's grooving it can send shivers up and down your spine, it's exciting," Mr Franklin said.

"We've had music all our lives and we enjoy it."

Mr Franklin served in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War Two, and after that, he joined a military band until he was retired.

It was then that he joined the City of Perth Band, where he's only months away from becoming the new Guinness World Record holder for the title of the world's oldest band conductor.

George Franklin turned 104 years old on March 11, 2026.   (ABC News: Bridget McArthur)

American musician Frank Edmond, who passed away in January 2023, currently holds the record. 

Mr Edmond conducted the Pensacola Civic Band until he died aged 104 years and 168 days.

Mr Franklin will pass that milestone on 27 August, 2026, but he remains sceptical.

"How would you know it's a world record? [Maybe] someone hasn't owned up to their age,"  Mr Franklin said.

"If that's true I don't know how long I will have that because I'm sure there will be someone around the corner who says I know someone else."

With or without a record, Mr Franklin's family and friends believe he is a very accomplished musician.

"He's been a musician all his life, he's still able to write music," daughter Gail Franklin said.

Long-time friend and band member Don Steel described him as "amazing".

"He's a very experienced musician and a pleasure to play under," Mr Steel said.

First published at ABC News, March 26, 2026