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You know it’s true: playing in a band is fun. But playing in a GIGANTIC band is downright awesome! And that gigantic band experience is what BandFest is all about. This is a non-competitive festival where community musicians gather for a weekend of music-making in a friendly, supportive environment. It’s a chance to play with others who share your passion for making music, and an opportunity to compare notes with those who have chosen the same instrument as you have to express that feeling. Chances are, you will find quite a few new musical friends at this year’s BandFest.
BandFest 2026 will feature the Champlain Band for intermediate-advanced players and the MacKay Band for less experienced players. This year’s talented directors have the capacity to either affirm or change your concept of what band music is all about.
ABOUT OUR GUEST CONDUCTORS:
Jaelem Bhate-
Jaelem is a conductor and composer known for his wide-ranging work in classical and jazz. A strong proponent of reinvention and accessibility, Jaelem works to reimagine the role of instrumental music in the 21st century. Named as one of CBC’s hot 30 under 30 classical musicians in 2019, he is the music director of the PEI Symphony Orchestra. His jazz albums have earned national acclaim, including the Julian Award for emerging Canadian jazz excellence. Jaelem is an advocate for the role of music and music making in everyday life. As the music director of the Vancouver Brass Collective, he created an online symposium entitled 'BRASS-ENMBLY', aimed at providing education and engagement for students and the community.
Dr. Denise Grant-
Denise has gained respect as a conductor and educator known for her musical depth and artistic sensitivity. Her Ph.D. in conducting and music education is from the University of Minnesota, with additional degrees from Dalhousie and Acadia Universities. She founded conducting symposiums at University of Toronto and University of Regina, co-founded the Canadian Winds journal, and premiered numerous new works for wind ensemble. Denise has served on music boards across Canada and guest conducted honour bands, emphasizing music's role in fostering connection and developing compassionate, critical thinkers.
IMPORTANT DETAILS:
Location: All rehearsals will be held at The Annapolis Royal Community Hub ("The Academy"), 590 St. George St. Both the gymnasium and community band room will be in use. A Sunday afternoon finale concert will take place in the Academy gymnasium.
Cost:
Early bird registration: $100 per musician, registration and payment due by June 15, 2026
Regular rate: $125 per musician
Additional family musician: $70
Student discount: $50 per musician
This price includes instruction, coffee breaks, Saturday evening dinner and entertainment.
Additional guests are welcome to join us for the Saturday evening dinner. Additional tickets cost $35.
Lodging: For a listing of accommodations and prices go to www.annapolisroyal.com.
Guests: Do not be concerned that your guests will be bored while you play. This amazing little town has much to offer the visitor. For information, check out www.annapolisroyal.com.
HOW TO REGISTER:
Registration must be completed online: www.abcb.ca
Registrants will be required to provide the following information:
Name
Address
Phone
Instrument and part
Community/ home band (if applicable)
Payment:
E-transfer payment preferred. E-transfers should be sent to [email protected].
Alternatively, you can send payment in Canadian Funds, payable to Annapolis Basin Community Band, to:
Jim Medill
29 English Oaks Dr.
Lequille, NS, B0S1A0
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Event Venue
Annapolis Royal Regional Academy, 76 School St, Annapolis Royal, NS B0S 1A0, Canada
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
