Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater, PR & Communications | On Wednesday, 2 May 2018 in the SVRSS Cafeteria, the Swan Valley Community Band had their 24th Spring Concert, performing for over 65 people. After enjoying the Concert, everyone was treated to refreshments.

With a constant membership of around 30 to 35, the Band continues to entertain, develop musicianship, camaraderie and friendship among themselves. Each year the Direction is undertaken by a number of Conductors who join us from the Swan Valley School Division Band Program.

Julie Kooistra, who was one of those people, decided to start a Community Band 24 years ago. She is our main Conductor with others helping out wherever & whenever they can.

This year Kevin Salmi, Music Director at Benito School, did that, giving the membership exposure to someone else’s perspective on conducting. This also gives each Director a chance to get involved with their chosen instrument. Unfortunately for us, Kevin and his wife, Sara who also is a member, will be leaving our community for new adventures elsewhere.

Also, in addition to the Concert Band, there is a Brass Quintet, Tarnished Brass, which performs for every Concert. Occasionally, one of the group will decide to do a solo. Once again, we were treated to Rick Houle on his Trumpet.

Come September, 2018, our 25th year will begin. Anyone is quite welcome to join us. We are always happy to have new people, whether you have been many years away from your instrument or not! Give us a call—Julie Kooistra, 734-5139 or Jayne Leadbeater, 734-4771—with any questions you might have.

Thank you to Evelyn Bredin for doing the photography.