by Sylene Argent
Just in time to get some shopping done for the upcoming Mother’s and Father’s Day celebrations, the Kingsville Essex Associated Band hosted its 3rd Annual Spring Gift Show inside the gymnasium at Essex District High School on Sunday.
Around 30 vendors lined the gym walls as many visitors perused the unique items, homemade décor, and jewelry available for sale.
Jamie Bombardier, the Kingsville Essex Associated Band’s President, said the event was a great way to not only raise some funds to purchase more music equipment or replace uniforms, it also provided a wonderful opportunity for the band’s members to connect with the community.
“We always have a table setup with information about the band and past photos,” he said, noting it is hoped that information helps to inspire those who have been thinking about joining Canada’s longest continuously running community marching band to do so.
Those interested in joining the Kingsville Essex Associated Band do not need prior music experience to get involved. The Band will teach new musicians, and one day they will be able to perform in parades and at other area community events. The Band also has a colour guard and majorette ensemble those interested can join.
Currently the band has around 40 members and it provides leadership opportunities for its membership, like stepping up to conduct the band.
“We are teaching the skills to lead the next generation,” Bombardier said.
Bombardier explained the local marching band has a new Music Director, Lorraine Capel-Cure, who brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge. He said Capel-Cure was a past member of the Kingsville Essex Associated Band, and has been a part of many local music-related endeavours.
Having a new Music Director brings a new perspective to the music the band plays, he noted.
The Kingsville Essex Associated Band’s summer performance schedule is filling up quickly, and its members are looking forward to performing at a variety of local parades and as part of the Town of Essex’s Arts, Culture, and Tourism Committee’s Tune up the Parks summer music series. The local marching band will perform in Essex Centre, inside the Heritage Gardens Park, on June 12.
Typically, the Kingsville Essex Associated Band meets on Thursday nights at Kingsville District High School during the school year and at the Essex Community Centre during the summer months.
For more information, visit its Facebook page or log onto www.keab.ca.