"Back to the Future" - 38th Anniversary Festival
Plans are well underway for the Canadian Staff Band's 38th Anniversary Festival at Scarborough Citadel on May 26th. The theme will be "Back to the Future," and is intended as a tribute to the CSB's past history, present mission and future ministry. The novel concept, conceived by Staff Bandmaster Brian Burditt, will be enhanced by the presence of the Ontario Central Reservist Band under the direction of CSB alumnus Geoff Norton; Impact Brass (formerly Ontario South Divisional Youth Band) led by current Staff Bandsman Ken Bailey; and various CSB alumni who will present solo items, including Curtis Metcalf, now associated with Toronto's Hannaford Street Silver Band.
To further enhance the "Back to the Future" theme, three compositions have been commissioned for the evening and will receive their world premiere. As a tribute to the CSB's past history and heritage, founding Bandmaster Lt-Colonel Norman Bearcroft is writing a march for the Ontario Central Reservist Band, a group that includes several CSB alumni in its ranks. The CSB's second bandmaster, Colonel Robert Redhead, is writing a piece to be played by the present CSB symbolizing its current ongoing ministry. And finally, Major Kenneth Smith, a current member of the band, is writing something for Impact Brass, signifying a look to the future as presented by these dedicated young players from the Ontario Great Lakes Division. In addition, Lt-Colonel Bearcroft has written another piece for the Reservist Band that will also be premiered on this historic night. Each of the composers will conduct the various bands in their original compositions.
The entire evening promises to be a night you won't want to miss. It will be held at
Scarborough Citadel, 2021 Lawrence Ave. E., Toronto. Tickets are $15 each and are available from any staff band member or by phoning the music and gospel arts department at 416-422-6108.