Once a week these young students gather and share a common passion for music. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Music appreciation

Prince Albert youth jazz band creates harmonious connection

Oct 16, 2024 | 2:00 PM

It’s not Mr. Holland’s Opus or the School of Rock, but a new youth club in Prince Albert is hitting all the right notes.

Scott Randall, who teaches band and music at Vincent Massey and John Diefenbaker schools, is the person responsible for the high school jazz band and did something similar when he previously lived in Yellowknife.

“I’ve kinda just always had a passion for directing jazz ensembles,” he remarked when meeting with paNOW Tuesday night.

The band which includes students from across the city in Grades 6 to Grade 11, features saxophones, trombones, trumpets, euphoniums, a bass guitar, drums, and even a piano.

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“These are keener kinda guys that are just looking for the chance and opportunity to play and perform,” Randall explained.

Vincent Massey was selected not just for its large music room but also for its centralized location in the city. And while noting the feedback from both parents and colleagues has been very positive, Randall said music helps build confidence.

“You know when I’m performing and I know I’ve done well, and I’ve worked and I’ve performed and I’ve received the applause, it’s just a good feeling,” he said.

(Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

(Nigel Mazwell/ paNOW Staff)

Abbey Roos is a Grade 11 student at Carlton Comprehensive High School and comes from a musical family. She also really enjoys being a part of this after school club.

“It’s really fun and I really enjoy playing music with people who are really passionate about it,” she said.

Tatianna Trautmann also attends Carlton and commented how much she enjoys learning something new.

“It kind of really broadens our musical horizons a little because it is a lot different than what we are taught in concert band because we get to learn a whole different version of music,” she said.

The band practices every Tuesday night and aspires to one day perform for the community and perhaps at the street fair.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell.