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The History of the Saskatoon Concert Band
The Saskatoon Concert Band has a
proud history of service and achievement. The band has had a
variety of titles over the years: Canadian Air Force Band (1947), 406
Wing Band (later the 23rd Wing Band), Kinsmen Concert Band, HMCS
Unicorn Band. All of these organizations were the predecessors of what
is currently known as the Saskatoon Concert Band, formed as a
non-profit organization in 1982.
During the era of the 23rd Wing Band the organization won the Canadian
National Exhibition; this was also the timeframe that the band
showcased the talents of Rafael Mendez as a guest artist. The HMCS
Unicorn band performed in Saskatchewan’s Centennial year celebrations,
toured Northern Saskatchewan, performed at the Legislature and the
opening of the Gardiner Dam.
John H. Schoen was the conductor of the band from its inception.
John was born and lived all his life in Saskatoon, the exception being
his military service during the Second World War. He started playing
cornet at the age of 5, later joining the Saskatoon Boys Band. John
Schoen was the conductor and music director of the Saskatoon Concert
Band for over 3 decades. The newly renovated Saskatoon Concert
Band Hall was named in his honour in 2015.
The Saskatoon Concert Band serves the community and province in several
ways. In our public concerts we have showcased promising local,
provincial and Canadian musicians as our guest artists. The Saskatoon
Concert Band donates their time for civic events such as the mayor’s
gala and have played for visiting royal family.
The Saskatoon Concert Band comprises two bands: the Saskatoon Concert
Band is under the direction of George Charpentier and the Saskatoon
Auxiliary Band is under the direction of Nicholas Todd. The Saskatoon
Concert Band performs 3 regular concerts and 1 outdoor “free” concert
in the spring for Saskatoon and surrounding area. The Saskatoon
Auxiliary Concert Band performs 2 concerts per year in Saskatoon.
The Saskatoon Auxiliary Concert Band was formed in 1987 with the
intention of meeting the needs of adult developing players or
individuals that have decided to pick up their instruments after a few
years of not playing. Between the two bands, we offer an
opportunity for players of all skill levels to play at a level that is
both challenging and satisfying to their individual needs.
Rehearsals are held at the John H. Schoen Band Hall located at 238
Avenue V North.
Saskatoon Auxiliary Band rehearses Tuesday nights from 7:30 – 9:30 pm.
Saskatoon Concert Band rehearses Wednesday nights from 7:30 – 9:30 pm.
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