The Moose Jaw Band & Choral Festival has been a part of life in the city for over 70 years and somehow continues to grow in popularity and attendance — organizer Janie Fries estimates at least 4,500 students in 112 groups were here last week, bringing with them families, teachers, chaperones, adjudicators, and more.
“It was really good. It was very busy, but it was awesome,” Fries said. “We had good responses from the directors and Moosic in the Park was very well attended. We were very pleased with that, the weather held out for that event.
“I've actually fielded a couple of emails already from directors whose names I don't recognize, so they've never registered at the festival before. But they've already emailed asking when are the dates for next year? When does registration open up? So, people are already planning for next year, because this year was so successful.”
The Band & Choral Festival has ongoing since 1950, with breaks some years for events like COVID. It's a non-competitive format that gives bands, choirs, and other musical ensembles a chance to get valuable feedback and practice. Fries said it’s amazing that it’s still growing.
“I've been keeping track over a number of years because I have programs from years past, and every year it increases by about six to ten groups. For example, 10 years ago we probably had about 70 groups and this year we had a record 112.
“It spreads through word-of-mouth, from director to director. Mostly they pass it on to each other, saying ‘It was such a good festival, our kids learned a lot, Moose Jaw is a great place to take your students.’
“It doesn't surprise me anymore, but I'm always pleased by the fact that the city, whether they realize it or not, is a very important part of this festival. We do our part, with providing a quality festival, but the city really steps up. Tourism steps up, the businesses step up, to help provide an all-inclusive experience for these students.”
Fries said the Band & Choral Committee could really use some more help, considering the expansion. Volunteers do not need to be music aficionados, have perfect pitch, or be experienced — a 'pitch-in-where-you-can' attitude is plenty.
The 2026 Moose Jaw Band & Choral Festival takes place May 11-14 next year. Registration opens October 11, 2025.
Learn more, and find out how to volunteer, at www.mjbandandchoral.org, or email mjbandandchoral@gmail.com.