Hi everyone! I'm excited for the upcoming school year and what we're going to accomplish in our music ensembles! I have already begun putting together the ensembles as I have heard from most of you that have had a son/daughter in a band last year. Of course, the invitation is open to all students at Maillard, so if your son or daughter is interested in joining a band (or bands if they wish), then please send me an email to rseah@sd43.bc.ca with the following information:

First and last name of student
Ensemble(s) they wish to join
Instrument of choice

Please note that for the Beginner Band, you must list out your first choice, second choice, and third choice of instrument. In most cases I will try to accommodate everyone's first choice, but the band needs to be balanced, so you may be given your second or third choice. The list of choices are: flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, bari saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, electric bass, or percussion. Right now we are currently full on percussionists, so please try to choose another instrument.

For the Advanced Band and Jazz Band, there is a requirement that all students have at least one year of experience on their instrument before they can join. Also, some instruments in the Jazz Band will be auditioned as there aren't as many spots for rhythm section players. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Instrument rentals are done through G&G Music, although you may rent from any music store if you wish. G&G Music will be coming to Maillard to host an instrument rental night on Monday, September 14th from 7-9pm in the music room. You can come on that evening to sign a contract and take an instrument home.

I will give instructions about rehearsal dates in the first week of school, so check the announcements for details regarding the bands and choir too! Beginner Band rehearses on Monday and Thursday mornings, Advanced Band on Tuesday and Friday mornings, and Jazz Band on Wednesday mornings. All rehearsals start at 7:30am. The choir rehearsal times are still being worked out, so stay tuned for an update on that!

Hope you are all having a fantastic summer so far! I'm typing this with blurry eyes as I just recently had laser eye surgery. :)