BandFest is a three-day honour band experience from Jan 9 - 11, 2026  for woodwind, brass, and percussion students in Grades 5 -12.

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BandFest is presented by Wilfrid Laurier University's Faculty of Music (Dr. Leah McGray) & the Ontario Band Association (Troy Jones).

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This unique event supports and complements school band programs by celebrating motivated young musicians right where they are, with no formal audition required. Three ensemble levels ensure all students, from beginner through advanced, have an engaging and challenging musical experience. A brief seating placement will take place on Friday evening.

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Students will be placed in one of three groups based on experience:

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Gold band:

   - Grades 5-8 or beginner - 2 yrs of playing

Purple band:

   - Grades 9-10 or 2-3 yrs of playing

Hawk Band:

   - Grades 11-12 or 3+ yrs of playing

 

BandFest musicians will work with professional educators, conductors, Laurier faculty, and student mentors, participate in masterclasses, and perform in a public final concert on Sunday afternoon.

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Honour Bands are a great chance for students to meet other like-minded individuals and work towards a common goal. The Laurier/OBA Honour Band is an educational concert band that will develop not only the participants' musical capabilities, but also their self confidence, team work and spirit, which they will bring home and to school to positively affect everyone who is around them.

 

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