A little bit of Monday morning jazz opened the week as a seven-piece ensemble packed horns, bass, piano, kit and vibes (yes, vibraphone!) into the Classic 107 studio!
Under the leadership of Kathy Byrne, the Sturgeon Heights Senior Jazz Combo is one of a few ensembles and bands at the school which boasts an active music scene.
“When the students are in the program, I think they feel a sense of community and a sense of family,” says Byrne. “They love to make music.”
This year, only the Senior Concert Band will have the chance to participate in the Manitoba Band Association’s Family of Festivals – which includes both the Concert Band Festival at the RBC Convention Centre and the Jazz Band Festival at the Centre Culturel Franco-Manitobain – though Byrne and her bands have been regular participants over the years.
“It’s a great experience to be able to hear music and have qualified people give you feedback” she says, noting it is a learning experience for both the young musicians and her.
The Concert Band Festival takes place February 20 through 23 at the RBC Convention Centre with the Jazz Band Festival at the end of the month.
Over the next few weeks, expect to hear from several small ensembles in celebration of the Family of Festivals!
Learn more at: www.mbband.org