Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater (Minish)
After 3 long Covid19 years, the Swan Valley Community Band was back in full swing with their annual Christmas Concert held Friday, 9 December 2022 at the Ecole Swan River South School.
A substantial number of people enjoyed “Music for Christmas” from our group. And, to round out the evening, the Ladies of “Highly Strung” Ukuleles strummed and sang more of the same. Entertainment at its best!
The last Concert performed was December 2019. In 2020, with Convid19 locking the country down one month before our annual Spring Concert, we were unable to perform until this past Canada Day 2022. As we had participated in the annual Canada Day celebrations since 2008, we were invited to continue that tradition when it was back in action this year.
Our numbers are small, BUT we have a Big Band sound! Convincing past musicians to join us, after the Covid19 stretch, has been a challenge, but we NEVER give up. Recruitment is always ongoing for those people, plus others, and anyone desiring to learn something new.
Pictured above: L-R Back: Rob Nesbitt – Tuba, Phyl Friesen – Percussion, Maureen Bowles -Percussion, Devan Hemmett – Bass Clarinet/Director/Trumpet/Alto Sax, Lorraine Malcolm – Tenor Sax, Erika Brandson – Tenor Sax, David Gnida – Trumpet, Donna Mae Riddell – Alto Sax, Jayne Leadbeater – Trombone
Front: Stephanie Jersak – Percussion/Keyboard, Cindy Bobick – Percussion, Julie Kooistra – Director/French Horn, Linda McCrea – Clarinet, Donna Jorundson – Clarinet, Christina Danyluk – Flute, Karen Kosolowski – Flute, Kim Kosokowski – Trumpet
Our venue has changed for weekly practice & performances, now that the SVRSS Band Room & Multipurpose Room are undergoing extensive renovations. The Music Director at ESRSS, Devan Hemmett, has welcomed and joined us with musical support & direction. Our SVCBAND Director & Founder, Julie Kooistra, welcomes the opportunity to participate by playing, as well as directing, with Mr. Hemmett lifting the baton, too.
We look forward to your inquiries, please contact Julie Kooistra at 204-734-0352 or Jayne Leadbeater at 204-731-0179.