In the autumn of 1996, a new band began rehearsing – it would become the Port Elgin Community Band.
The band was formed by Port Elgin-Saugeen Central School’s music teacher, Cam Porter, in response to a large contingent of parents who had expressed interest in learning to play a concert band instrument. So it was that 60 people or so began receiving instruction on Thursday evenings on instruments that were either brass, woodwind or percussion.
That instruction soon blossomed for the members into relative performance expertise and, remarkably, the band is still going strong to present day. The band recently performed it’s 30 year anniversary concert at Saugeen District Senior School (SDSS) in Port Elgin on May 7th.
From the very beginning, the mandate of the band was twofold – to provide instruction to interested parents and students so that the joy of music could be attained and to support local school music programs through donations.
With regard to the first part of the mandate, the band has had a wonderful musical journey over the years. It’s a journey that has included regular Thursday evening rehearsals from September until mid-May, annual Christmas and Spring concerts, many trips to local and national music festivals, special local concerts and guest instructors and musical luminaries worthy of note assisting the band.
With regard to the latter part of the mandate, the band has been very successful. Over $100,000 has been donated to area schools. Instruments, instrument repairs, music supplies and accessories, chairs, stands and sheet music are just some of the donations made by the band. The generosity of band members and concert audiences in this endeavour has not only been useful but has been overwhelming.
The band has had well over 200 members through its 30 years, many who have been long-time contributors. Members have included all age ranges with students being a key component in the band.
In addition, the band has had many conductors, including local teachers and educators such as Ms. Kim Lake, Mr. Ian Burbidge and Mr. Don Burns.
For larger view, click on image – photos by Saugeen Times
“The band will continue to pursue it’s mandates again this upcoming fall,” says founder Cam Porter. “The joy of music will hopefully continue to thrive in Saugeen Shores and the Port Elgin Community Band will continue to add to that joy.”
