The Manitoba Band Association is partnering with acclaimed Manitoba composer, Peter Meechan, to raise awareness and support for the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, using the healing power of music.
This collaboration, called Manitoba Wave of Light, is a heartfelt fundraiser organized by the Manitoba Band Association and will demonstrate the healing power of music, as well as providing a unique opportunity to unite people and communities throughout our province in the battle against a disease that affects so many.
"This is going to be something very exciting to see come together, this partnership with the Manitoba Band Association, and really with Peter Meechan who is composing the piece," shares Sherelle Kwan, Manager of Community Events and Development for CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
"We got talking about music and the power of it and Pete, he has composed songs in the past that have really brought healing and hope that helps people through their journey being touched by cancer," explains Kwan. "So, really this conversation started about what could be done. And Brent and Pete and I got talking and this Wave of Light theme came up. I really take no ownership. It was Pete and Brent's minds and their understanding of the world of music and who could all join!"
Bands of all ages and levels from across the province are invited to participate in this one-of-a-kind initiative, and that invited has already began at last week's Family of Festivals Concert Band week. The invite continues this week as the Manitoba Band Association's Family of Festivals continues with the Jass Band performances where hundreds of schools and thousands of students from across the province share their talents.
"I see people who are touched by cancer every day, and I see their loved ones," says Kwan. "And you see such an individual experience for everyone, the shared commonality. But music just has this ability to transcend all of us, what we're all going through, and bring people together in a way really like no other."
"Everyone's involvement in this initiative will make such a difference for those touched by cancer here in Manitoba," says Kwan.
"And so, listening to Pete and Brent start dreaming about what I thought would be just a beautiful piece of music has turned into this hopefully amazing fundraiser that's set to take place next May, May of 2026," she adds.
Meechan's Wave of Light music will be composed as a flexible arrangement with multiple levels of parts, from easy to more challenging, and will include expanded instrumentation including non-traditional wind band instruments so that nearly any configuration of musicians can perform it, from piano accompaniment to wind band, to symphony orchestra and nearly anything in between. In addition, voice parts will encourage collaboration with singers, choirs, and with the audience.
How it Works
- Bands can register their event to take part in this meaningful initiative.
- Once registered, participating groups will receive the original music (available in September, 2025) along with educational support materials to teach and learn at no cost.
- The music is appropriate for musicians of all ages and nearly all experience levels and a great opportunity to engage with new music, enhance their skills, and work together on a shared project.
- In turn, each group is asked to host a fundraising concert in May 2026, with proceeds benefiting CancerCare Manitoba Foundation. These concerts will provide an opportunity to celebrate the collective effort of bringing people together through music while raising vital funds for cancer care and research.
All funds raised and donated remain in Manitoba. These funds support an internationally-recognized team of health professionals at CancerCare Manitoba who provide outstanding care for patients and their families.
"The word is getting out there now of this Wave of Light because music is being composed, and it will have to be learned, and that's where the beauty of everything that Brent and the Manitoba Band Association, and Pete in the experience in the world of music is really coming together in this what we hope will be a powerful movement throughout Manitoba," adds Sherelle Kwan.
Please listen to more with Sherelle Kwan below!