SD83 Music Department Highlights for April
The month of April has been an outstanding and memorable one for band programs across the District, featuring exceptional performances, meaningful travel opportunities, and well‑deserved recognition at the regional, provincial, and national levels. From elementary classrooms to senior ensembles, students demonstrated dedication, musical growth, and pride in their accomplishments.
A major highlight was the Shuswap Music Festival, held from April 14-15, 2026, at A.L. Fortune Secondary. Nearly 300 student musicians from nine bands performed over two days. Adjudicated by one of Canada’s top music educators, Sean Irvine of Winnipeg, students benefited from expert feedback and engaging workshops that strengthened both technical skills and musical confidence. Congratulations to all of our students and educators on their hard work, dedication, and excellent accomplishments!
Concert Band B100:
LWMS Band 8 - Silver
ERS Band 7 - Bronze
ALF Band 7 - Gold
Concert Band B200:
ERS Band 8/9 - Gold
ALF Band 8 - Silver
Concert Band B300:
ALF Band 9-12 - Gold
Jackson Band 9 - Gold
Concert Band B400:
SAS Band 10-12 - Silver
Jazz (J100):
SMS Jazz 7/8 - Gold
Beyond local festivals, bands traveled throughout British Columbia to participate in events. The J.L. Jackson, A.L. Fortune, and Salmon Arm Secondary bands attended the Windscapes Music Festival in Kelowna from April 20-23, 2026, where they participated in performances and adjudications. In addition, the. J.L. Jackson Grades 9-11 Jazz Band took part in the Interior Jazz Festival, from April 16-18, 2026.
These experiences led to outstanding results, including gold standings and an invitation for both the Salmon Arm Secondary Concert Band and Jazz Band to represent the District at MusicFest Canada Nationals in Calgary in 2027.
It has been a busy spring around the District for the elementary classes. They have been preparing spring concerts, teas, and year-end performances to showcase what they have learned and worked on throughout the school year.
Stay tuned for events that are occurring in May, such as:
- Pleasant Valley Secondary performances in Victoria
- A.L. Fortune's Drumline Provincials
- A.L. Fortune's performances in Squamish
