Anthony's Community Music Site
Copyright © 1996–2015 Anthony Reimer
Bands are for adults, too!
Some of Calgary's independent community Concert Bands and Ensembles have started taking on joint projects to raise the profile of community music-making in our city. This page (also available in brochure form) highlights the common and unique things these bands have to offer. The current member bands (known collectively as Band Up! Calgary) are:
Here's the content of the brochure in web-friendly format:
Pick Your Night! Pick Your Band!
Monday • Foothills Concert Band
Since 1968, Foothills Concert Band has been “serving the community through music”—that’s our motto. We play a number of concerts in the Calgary area each season, including free concerts in extended care and assisted living facilities, as well as in public places like Heritage Park. We also play joint concerts with school groups and other community music organizations of a similar nature. The music we play is quite varied, with an emphasis on music that is suitable for performance in a concert hall.
Where: Knox United Church (506 – 4 St. SW) for most weeks (see web site for specifics)
When: Mondays @ 7:30 p.m.
Fall Rehearsals Start: Monday, September 8
How to Join: Attend up to 3 rehearsals; self-audition (all sections open to new members through Thanksgiving)
www.foothillsconcertband.ca
info [at] foothillsconcertband.ca
@FoothillsCBand
Wednesday • Rocky Mountain Concert Band
In September of 2002, the Accidental Stars Concert Band and the Chinook Concert Band merged to form The Rocky Mountain Concert Band. Our membership consists of adults from ages 18 to 70+. We promote musicianship and love to perform. Do you play or did you used to play an instrument, or know of someone who does? We are always looking for new members—talk to any member of the band about joining or visit our website.
Where: St. Mary's High School Band Room
When: Wednesdays @ 7:00 p.m. starting Sept. 10
How to Join: Attend a rehearsal; informal audition
www.rmcb.ca
info [at] rmcb.ca
Rocky-Mountain-Concert-Band
Thursday • Metropolitan Winds
Metropolitan Winds strives to provide unique musical experiences of the highest quality to both the community and players. The ensemble fills a musical niche within Southern Alberta by providing energetic and entertaining performances of varied musical repertoire by small chamber groups and full wind ensemble, in an intimate and informal setting. Our repertoire is also unique in that it varies from classic band and orchestral works to more contemporary music. The group is built upon a ‘one player per part’ concept, providing more room for musical expression.
Where: Simon Fraser School (5215 – 33 St. NW)
When: Thursdays @ 7:30 p.m.
How to Join: Attend a rehearsal (check web site for schedule); must be able to play one on a part
www.metropolitanwinds.ca
info [at] metropolitanwinds.ca
@MetroWindsYYC
Regardless of which ensemble(s) you choose, you’ll get:
An Emphasis on Performance
These groups have at least three but often several performances per year. We do hold sectional rehearsals periodically but do not focus on teaching. You should have already developed some proficiency (even if it was a number of years ago) on your instrument. You will start playing right away.
Modest Fees
Currently, the annual membership dues for each ensemble is $200 or less (varies by band). This is often half what “teaching” bands charge. You may also be asked to volunteer a small amount time during the year.
Independence
Each ensemble is run by a member-elected executive.
Cooperation
These groups have collaborated on concerts and workshops in the past and are now broadening that cooperation to shine the light on a community band scene that is one of the liveliest in North America. Increasing participation, both by players and audiences, is the overarching goal. We are actively working towards a shared rehearsal and performance facility.
A Group of Friendly Adults
The membership of each band is predominantly adults (18+ years old). Each group also has a social aspect to it, the particulars of which vary by group but always include the comeraderie involved in making music together.
