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Community Bands
In November 2007, Ken Foote was approached for his thoughts on the development of a new community band on the South Shore. Ken offered his thoughts and then asked Ron MacKay for his thoughts. Here is a copy of Ron's response.
I think the time has come for community bands to come into the 21st Century - it is 2007 not 1907. Many of the "community bands" in past years were a pastime for the boys to have a big blast on from a never ending list of marches and overtures counted off by the lead trumpet player (sometimes known as the music god). The rehearsal was followed by a couple beers after at the local pub - Legion Hall or someone's basement and talk over old times.
Times have changed. Community bands are like families - made up of men, women and children who get their enjoyment from the performance of music. They want challenges within a broad repertoire - transcriptions, original works, popular music, and show tunes. The conductor has to be a musician/educator and aware of all types of repertoire.
Very few successful community bands can operate without facilities unless they charge a membership fee. "Free" facilities often involve a trade off somewhere such as: "you can use the hall if you play for Remembrance Day, the Christmas Parade, Natal Day Parade and special events for the town". Of course the facility comes without stands, a music library or percussion equipment . If you do happen to get a school that will let you use the band room, you should still pay a fee for equipment you would use.
Some community bands do get grants from their town (of course it come with the particular favours mentioned above). Most bands try to raise operational funds by playing out of town parades, concerts, 50/50 draws, raffles, and the odd honorarium for a special event. All of these activities are dependent on band members showing up for the gig. In any case, these do not generate enough funds to operate a successful band these days.
I also notice that many conductors work without a fee. Is their education, experience and leadership - only worth $0 plus "nice job Mary"? There should be a membership fee for each member of the band. The amount depends on costs of facilities, equipment, music, and conductor's fee. You might check out fees for curling, skiing, golfing, 1 hour of hockey, 10 movies over a year - or other activities you may be involved in.
In Alberta they have excellent community band programs and the fee for membership may seem high by our standards. To belong to these organizations the fees range from $350 to $450 per season (September to June). The fees depends on how many activities they participate in - Concert Band, Stage Band, small ensembles, etc. The fee provides facilities, music, equipment, and paid conductor. In some areas they have four levels of bands - Beginner, Junior, Intermediate, and Senior. I have heard these bands and I must say they are large and very good. For activities over and above band rehearsals such as tours - participating in festivals - members are charged extra.
Just a few thoughts...... All the best Ron