What is the Milton Concert Band (MCB)?
Made up of woodwinds, brass, a rhythm section and percussion, the MCB is a community based non-profit organization. Comprised of amateur
musicians from Milton and the
surrounding area, the band's mission will be to provide Milton and area residents with an opportunity to enjoy and perform great music
right here in their own community.
Why form a band in Milton?
After moving to Milton in 2005, MCB's founders Angela Rozario and Cheryl Ciccarelli quickly recognized the lack of performing opportunities for adult amateur musicians in the Milton area.
Former members of the Etobicoke Community Concert Band, the two soon tired of the commute to Etobicoke . Angela explains the group's genesis,
"Given the number of new residents in this area, the wealth of cultural events and the wonderful existing arts community, it seemed unbelievable that there was not already a community band.
Cheryl and I felt that this was something that both local musicians and the community needed and was long overdue."
Are auditions required?
No, we want band members to play for the love of music and most of all have fun. However, in order to maintain the band's overall level of performance we are looking for musicians
who possess intermediate to advanced skill level on their instruments and are committed to helping the band meet its performance objectives through regular practice.
Do I need my own instrument?
Yes, you will need to supply and be responsible for your own instrument and music stand.
What type of music will MCB play?
We intend to play a wide variety of music including Broadway, Big Band, Classical, Contemporary, Jazz and Popular selections taking into
account the interests and preferences of our audiences. The pieces we play will vary in difficulty to challenge many levels of amateur musicians.
Where and when will you practice?
Rehearsals will begin in February 2007 and will be held on Thursday evenings from 8 - 10pm. We are currently applying for rehearsal space
in Milton and will forward further details when the location is finalized.
Will there be a membership fee?
During the inaugural season (Jan 2007-Aug 2007), band members will be asked to contribute $5 per rehearsal to cover the band's operating
expenses (rental facility fee, insurance, music directors compensation, etc). Beginning in September 2007 a membership fee will be charged
on a yearly basis. This fee will be in-line with what other community bands in Ontario charge.
Who will conduct MCB?
MCB will be under the musical direction of Joseph Resendes, B.FA, MA, PhD (candidate). Mr. Resendes is a composer and woodwind musician
(saxophone, clarinet and flute) who has performed in and around the GTA for over 10 years. He received degrees at York University focusing
on Solo Classical saxophone performance, conducting, composition, and digital recording. He has also composed several works for large and
small wind/string ensembles. Mr. Resendes is currently the musical director of the several vocal and music ensembles throughout the GTA
and is working at York University Music dept. as a TA and Guest Lecturer.
When will MCB start to perform?
We hope to hold our first performances in the Spring and Summer 2007 in time to celebrate Milton's 150th Anniversary.
How often will the MCB perform publicly?
During the inaugural season MCB hopes to perform 1-2 public performances. In subsequent years however we hope to perform 5-10
times per year.
Where will the MCB perform?
MCB will perform in a variety of venues from free concerts in the park to full length programs in concert facilities.
What are the goals of MCB for its members?
Our goal is to provide amateur
musicians with a venue to perform and the opportunity to hone their abilities
through regular practice, a range of musical selections, ensemble and sectional rehearsals and the guidance of the Music Director.
What are the goals of MCB for the community?
Our goal is to provide Milton and area residents with entertaining and vibrant programs that feature a varied
repertoire, high quality ensemble playing and, when appropriate, outstanding solo or group performances from both within and
outside the band. MCB will
endeavor to include at least one free community concert/event per season as a way of giving back to the
community.
display the desire to improve as evidenced through regular attendance at rehearsals
show a commitment to the band's performance goals through regular at home practice with special attention to pieces that are too difficult to master by sight reading alone
demonstrate an interest in assisting the MCB in furthering its objectives through dedication and willingness to volunteer for the myriad of non-musical tasks associated with a Community Concert Band.
What do I need to do to join MCB?
Forward the information requested on the cover letter (name, preferred instrument, alternate instrument, years of musical experience, address, phone number and
e-mail address) via e-mail to
info@miltonconcertband.com
or by phone to (416) 508-6106 and we will add you to the band list and notify you when we begin rehearsals.
