Submitted
Are you a recovering wind musician? Is there a high school band instrument in storage in your house? Now is the time to dust it off and join the Nelson Community Band.
Starting Sept. 3, like-minded musicians attend weekly rehearsals, learn their parts, and perform a few times during the year. Be prepared for a few rude jokes from the back row — the band has a lot of fun at practice. Rusty musicians are welcome. The band is also an excellent place for high school students to come play if they can’t fit band into their curriculum, or if they just want a little more variety in their concert band experience.
Nelson Community Band has been a strong thread in the fabric of Nelson for more than 120 years. From performing on the lawns of the Fairview elite under the baton of Fred L. Irwin before the First World War, to welcoming 100 musicians in 2017 for Banding Together, a festival of bands throughout the West Kootenay, the band has been solidly playing along.
You may have heard them on Remembrance Day at the cenotaph, as their solemn tones set the mood for the laying of wreaths. Or perhaps you have dropped a donation in the basket as they entertain Baker Street for the food bank at Christmas. Ideally you have attended one of their well balanced and delightful concerts that happen twice a year. Nelson is fortunate to have a committed group such as this.
With about 25 musicians, the band is expertly conducted by Laura Johnson, who brings both a classical background and a sense of play to the music stand. This year the band is also happy to have Bruce Hunter as interim director for the first few weeks. A high level of musicianship makes the band both challenging and entertaining.
For more information, visit the band’s Facebook page under Nelson Community Band, or call band president Mary Defeo at 250-352-2532.