The Manitoba Band Association (MBA) has announced a powerful new initiative, Manitoba Wave of Light, a province-wide musical collaboration in support of the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation. This heartfelt fundraiser will unite musicians of all ages and skill levels to highlight the healing power of music while raising funds for cancer care and research.
A Musical Tribute to Those Affected by Cancer
Inspired by the profound impact of cancer on individuals and families, Manitoba Wave of Light will feature a newly composed piece of music by acclaimed Manitoba composer Peter Meechan. Drawing from personal experiences, Meechan's composition will serve as a musical space for those affected by cancer to express and share emotions. The piece will be designed to be accessible for musicians of all skill levels, ensuring broad participation.
“Music has a unique ability to heal, uplift, and connect,” said MBA representatives. “We hope this initiative fosters community support, providing a meaningful way for musicians across Manitoba to come together in a shared journey of resilience and hope.”
A Composition in Progress
Meechan, a UK-born composer known for his evocative and powerful works, is currently in the early stages of writing the piece. While it’s not yet completed, he has spent a great deal of time considering how to craft a composition that can be performed by musicians ranging from beginners to seasoned professionals.
“The piece isn't actually written yet. That comes over the summer months and then goes out to participating bands from September,” Meechan explained. “A lot of thought has had to go into how the piece will function because it’s going to be for players who may be just beginning their journey as a musician, or it may be for professionals as well.”
To ensure inclusivity, the composition will be adaptable, allowing players with varying skill levels to participate meaningfully. “Beginner players don’t have as much ability on their instruments yet. That may mean they can’t play as many notes, or maybe can’t go super high or super low,” he said. “So the piece has to be written in a way that works for all levels while still being fulfilling for more advanced players.”
How It Works
Manitoba Wave of Light will officially launch in September 2025, when participating bands will receive the original composition along with educational resources to aid in learning the piece. Musicians, schools, and community ensembles are encouraged to sign up and prepare for a special series of fundraising concerts in May 2026.
Each group will host a performance in their community, with proceeds going to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation to support cancer treatment, research, and patient care. The fundraising efforts will be complemented by digital resources provided by the foundation, including customizable communications materials and promotional tools.
“Right now you can sign up to show your interest and you’ll go onto a mailing list,” Meechan said. “More information will start becoming available as we move forward.”
A Province-Wide Celebration
The performances will align with Music Month in May 2026, a time when schools and community bands across the province come together to celebrate music. This initiative will connect musicians from the north to the south and east to west, creating a “wave of light” through the shared experience of Meechan’s composition.
“May is provincially recognized as Music Month,” noted CancerCare Manitoba Foundation’s Sherelle Kwan, who is managing the event from the foundation’s side. “It gives us an opportunity to show the power of music within that month, to reach different human experiences, and to raise incredible amounts of money while lifting spirits.”
Inclusivity in Music
Meechan’s piece will be crafted as a flexible arrangement, allowing musicians of all skill levels and backgrounds to participate. It will include multiple levels of difficulty, making it accessible to beginner and advanced players alike. Additionally, non-traditional wind band instruments and vocal parts will be incorporated, inviting collaboration with choirs and audiences.
At times, beginner and advanced musicians will perform together. “It’s kind of working out a process of how to do that,” Meechan said. “There will be an audience participation element where people get to sing with it, so it’s not just going to be students.”
Why This, Why Now?
Cancer affects countless families, and the need for support has never been greater. Through Manitoba Wave of Light, musicians will not only honour those affected but also contribute to a cause that impacts the entire community.
“The power of music goes beyond entertainment—it can be a source of healing, a form of expression, and a way to unite people,” the MBA stated. “We believe this initiative will provide hope and solidarity in the fight against cancer.”
Kwan emphasized the broader impact of fundraising efforts. “I have the privilege of working for CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, and I see what fundraising can do for people. It’s so much more than a dollar amount,” she said. “When we talk about these fundraising concerts, the true hope is that they will bring people together. Cancer touches all of us in some way.”
Looking to the Future
While Wave of Light is launching as a one-time event, both Meechan and Kwan are hopeful it could become an annual tradition.
“I think the sky’s the limit,” Kwan said. “Give your passion a purpose. Who’s to say this couldn’t be something that goes on for many years, or even expands beyond Manitoba? When people come together, big things can happen.”
With a mission to raise funds, inspire hope, and unite communities through music, Wave of Light is set to be an extraordinary initiative. As bands across the province prepare to take part, the anticipation continues to grow for what promises to be a powerful and meaningful musical moment.
Join the Movement
Bands, musicians, and community groups across Manitoba are invited to take part in this inspiring initiative. Registration details and more information are available through the Manitoba Band Association and CancerCare Manitoba Foundation websites.
Together, through music, Manitoba can create a Wave of Light—a province-wide symbol of hope, healing, and community support.