Submitted by: Jayne Leadbeater

On Wednesday, the 14 May 2025, the SVRSS CAFETERIA had an audience of almost 100 people enjoying the performances of the Swan Valley Community Band and guests, the Swan Valley School Division’s Tour Band. This group is comprised of Grade 8-12 Band students from ESRSS, SVRSS, and Minitonas School. Because our group is blessed with multi-talented people, one of our selections spotlighted a duo of singers, Gillian Hunt and Lorraine Malcolm.

This Spring Concert, ‘Spring Shines Through”, was dedicated to former SVC Band members who sadly and recently passed away on the same day, 4 May
2025. We enjoyed Rick Houle on the trumpet for 20 years, and Addy Oberlin on Clarinet for 14 years. Rick always had a joke for every occasion and Addy was never without a smile.

This is the 31st year that the Swan Valley Community Band has been together with a current membership of 27. Julie Kooistra has directed the group from the beginning with numerous co-directors over these many years. Nic Stroud, Music Director at ESRSS, has joined Julie for the last 2 years participating as both Director and Musician. Consequently, Julie is able to do the same!

A number of members contribute more than just their musicianship. We have a Music Co-ordinator, Karen Kosolowsky, to keep all that music in order. Communications, Public Relations, and Secretary duties are all under the control of Jayne Leadbeater. Refreshments and Shirts managed by Phyl Friesen. Everything runs like a well-oiled machine!

New members are always welcome!

We know you would like to join us. Just call:

Julie Kooistra
204-734-5139, or

Jayne Leadbeater
204-734-4771.