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Sidney Concert Band, student musicians team up for ‘Musical Sleigh Ride’

Annual concert a benefit to support School District 63 music programs
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The Sidney Concert Band will perform with local middle school students Dec. 3 with proceeds benefiting music programs across School District 63. (Contributed/Colin Savage)

A seasonal benefit concert in support of middle school band programs in School District 63 invites you along on a “Musical Sleigh Ride.”

The Sidney Concert Band, joined by students from Bayside, North Saanich and Royal Oak middle schools promises a family-friendly evening of performance.

Funds raised from the show will support young musicians on the Saanich Peninsula – last year the local community band raised $1,500 directly benefiting SD63 programs.

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Conductor Bruce Ham, a retired high school band director said annual concerts like these go a long way to supporting music education for students year-round.

“I’m keenly aware of the financial needs of a school band program,” Ham said. “Instruments and music are very expensive, so any help we can give these programs will be greatly appreciated.”

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The evening will include holiday tunes, vocal performances and an audience sing-a-long as well as a group performance with student musicians from all participating schools.

Ham said the Sidney Concert Band looks forward to performing alongside the students and will also make a donation to their band programs.

“Sharing our collective musical knowledge with young people is so rewarding” said Ham, adding the opportunity to work with seasoned musicians provides invaluable mentorship to the younger generation.

“These students then take that experience back to their school and all their peers benefit as well,” he added.

Musical Sleigh Ride hits the stage Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. at the Parkland Secondary School theatre (10640 McDonald Park Road). Tickets are available at the door with a $10 suggested donation.


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