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BandFest 2026
What is BandFest?
BandFest is a three-day honour band experience from January 9–11, 2026 for woodwind, brass, and percussion students in Grades 5–12, hosted at Wilfrid Laurier University.
Bandfest is presented by Wilfrid Laurier University's Faculty of Music (Dr. Leah McGray) & the Ontario Band Association (Troy Jones).
This unique event supports and complements school band programs by celebrating motivated young musicians right where they are, with no formal audition required.
BandFest musicians will work with professional educators, conductors, Laurier faculty, and student mentors.
Conductors include:
- Dr. Cynthia Johnston Turner
- Dr. Leah McGray
- Third conductor TBA
- Masterclasses, clinics, and teacher PD opportunities will be offered throughout the weekend.
Who Can Participate?
BandFest welcomes school-age musicians who:
- Play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument
- Are active in a school band program (Grades 5-12)
- Are enthusiastic and ready to learn
Students will participate in a brief seating placement activity on Friday evening. Please bring something you are already working on in your band program that shows your strengths.
Ensemble Levels
Students will be placed in one of three groups based on experience:
| Ensemble | Experience Level |
|---|---|
| Gold Band | Grades 5–8 or beginner–2 years of playing |
| Purple Band | Grades 9–10 or 2–3 years of playing |
| Hawk Band | Grades 11–12 or 3+ years of playing |
How to Register
- Music teachers select up to 10 students per level to participate.
- Teachers share the registration link with the selected students.
- Students complete the registration form by the deadline.
- Teachers who wish to recommend more than 10 students per level, or who have questions, may contact lmcgray@wlu.ca.
Registration deadline: Monday, December 1, 2025 at 4 p.m.
Cost: $75
Event Schedule
Friday, January 9
- 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
- Seating placement
- Full ensemble rehearsal
- 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Full ensemble rehearsals
- Sectionals
- Optional teacher professional development & rehearsal observation
- 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
- Final concert, free and open to the public!
What Students Get
Participants will:
- Make music in a supportive, inspiring environment
- Learn from professional musicians and Laurier students
- Build confidence and ensemble skills
- Make new friends who love band
- Perform in a final concert in a professional venue
Student Requirements
- Enthusiasm & willingness to learn
- Functional instrument + accessories (reeds, mutes, etc.)
Why BandFest?
- No audition required — more students can participate
- Placement by experience means every musician is challenged appropriately
- Professional learning for teachers supports school band programs
- Community building strengthens regional music networks