11th Annual Halifax Community Band Festival
Schedule
Fri, 22 May, 2026 at 06:00 pm to Sun, 24 May, 2026 at 04:00 pm
UTC-03:00Location
Rosaria Student Centre, MSVU | Halifax, NS
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Join us for a weekend making music together!Never been? Here's how it works: You'll be sent the musical scores on May 1st (provided fees have been paid) so you have time to sight read the music we'll be playing on May 22nd-24th. Over the weekend you'll rehearse the music with your selected ensemble. We will have 3 guest conductors each with their own selection of music. You will also have the opportunity to meet with and learn from your instrumental clinician in small groups. On the afternoon of Sunday, May 24th you'll perform the music we've been rehearsing.
This year, the Halifax Community Band Festival will again be offering three levels of playing ensemble:
1. A Beginner Ensemble, called the Ron MacKay Band – for players with 1-2 years of experience.
2. An Intermediate Ensemble, called the Chris Ward Band – for players with 2-3 years of playing experience.
3. An Advanced Ensemble, called the James H. Hargreaves Band – for players with more than 3 years of experience.
Our 2026 Guest Conductors are:
Dr. Tristan DeBorba (Acadia University)
Matt Neufeld (composer, Manitoba)
Jeff McQuarrie (Bathurst Community Concert Band)
Oh! And don't forget the socials on Friday and Saturday night! You have the opportunity to win free registration for next year's Band Fest if you come to the Saturday night social with the best costume! This year's theme is "The Roaring 20's." Costumes are optional for the event.
2026 Registration Fees:
$115 – General Registration Fee
$90 – Any Additional Family Member
$50 – Fee for Full Time Students
To Register:
Please visit The Second Chances Community Music Program Nova Scotia website and explore the "Hfx Band Fest 2026" tab for more information: https://www.secondchancesband-ns.com/
Questions:
Contact Chris Ward at [email protected] for
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Where is it happening?
Rosaria Student Centre, MSVU, Halifax, Nova Scotia, CanadaEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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