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Take a deep breath and blow that horn! The Rockies may have
been a wink away, but this weekend all eyes were on the leader
of the band. Students from across the nation took part in the
ninth annual "Canadian Rocky Mountain Festival" held
in Banff AB, May 6-9. |
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In order to receive an invitation, each group had to go through
a screening process where a recording of their performance was
assessed. More than 130 bands, choirs, and jazz bands from about
50 different schools took part in this festival at the Banff
Centre. One school recognized was the Garden Valley Collegiate
from Winkler, MB.
The GVC Concert Band (conducted by Mr. Paul Moen) and the
GVC Senior Choir (conducted by Ms. Loretta Thorleifson) both
performed at a high level in this prestigious event. Students
were involved in performances along with a musical clinic that
offered helpful advice for each performer. Highly respected
adjudicators like Mr. Bruce Pearson and Dr. Gerald King were
involved in making this festival enjoyable, as well as a learning
experience for the students and conductors. One student said,
"I learned more about music in three days than I have in
six years of band class." To add a groovy style, special
performances were put on by the McGill Jazz Orchestra and the
Form Vocal Jazz Ensemble.
The students also got chance to take a break from the music
and enjoy the beautiful sites in Banff. It looks like this festival
was an all-around success! |
