Question 1

How many students are currently involved? What are the expected rehearsal times for the fall, where are they held, and what does the typical weekly time commitment look like?

Accepted Answer

We currently have over 40 students signed up, all skill levels and year levels are welcome! Term 1 rehearsals will be held every Tuesday from 5:30-7:30pm at Carey College, starting September 15 (term 2 TBD). As band is a team 'sport', we expect all members to attend all rehearsals and practice on their own time, for the rehearsals they cannot attend.

Question 2

I can't make it to weekly rehearsals, can I still join?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you absolutely can! There are multiple opportunities to perform at our winter concerts, whether that be through our concert band repertoire, vocal ensemble, or just solos/duets!

If you can't commit to weekly rehearsals, you may not be able to join us for our band pieces (however, discretion up to our Music Director). You are welcome to perform with us through our vocal ensemble, or just solos/duets pieces with other members of the band!

Question 3

How does the UBCV Student Concert Band fit with the Faculty of Music and already existing ensembles like UBC Concert Winds?

Accepted Answer

We want to make the band accessible for anyone and all levels, so we have a wide range of repertoires planned for all instrument levels. We find that some people who have not touched their instrument in years will be missing out as there’s not a band at UBC that is accessible for all skill levels.

Question 4

How are you planning on dealing with diverse skill levels?

Accepted Answer

All our repertoire are tailored to be beginner-friendly, as well as exciting for more advanced players. We plan to have the mentor sessions so the beginners are able to improve on their skills while giving those more experience musicians a chance to mentor the beginners. Our band is welcoming for all, and anyone can join regardless of their skill sets!

Question 5

Who can join?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who has a passion for music, or want to try out something new are welcome to join! We are open to players of all instruments and skill levels! It doesn't matter whether you've played your instrument for 10 years or 1 day, come join band!

Question 6

What kind of instruments are welcome?

Accepted Answer

Although we try to be open to all sorts of instruments, there won't be many performance opportunities for instruments outside of regular concert band instrumentation. However, we do have other ensembles (such as vocal, jazz, and solo/duet/small group performance opportunities) for those who still want to join, but don't play any concert band instruments.We are currently looking for a bass (either electric or upright), tuba, and more trumpets and trombones. If you play one of these instruments, or any instruments, please join us!!!