Citizens in Prince Rupert will have a number of opportunities to observe the Naden Band of the Maritime Forces Pacific, as well as one of the bands smaller ensembles, the Naden Winds, this week during Seafest weekend.
“We are very lucky to get them [to perform] for us. We are fortunate to have them come play in our community festival.” Said Joy from Prince Rupert Special Events Society.
The Naden Band of the Maritime Forces Pacific has been part of the navel tradition on the West Coast since 1940. The band is made up of 35 members who perform in a symphonic concert band and a choreographed marching band.
The Naden Winds, a smaller ensemble of the Naden Band, are a woodwind quintet that plays instruments such as the flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon and French horn. The group plays a variety of music ranging from different eras including classical, Medieval, Baroque, Renaissance, the 20th century to light, contemporary and popular music. Both groups will be in town this weekend.
Tickets for Wednesday’s show will cost $12 for arts council members and $15 for non-members. Proceeds from the Naden Winds show will go towards the Haida Gwaii Arts Council, as the band helps support communities they visit by fund raising for non-profit organizations.
Then on Friday, June 10, the Naden Winds will be performing at the Prince Rupert First United Church at 7 pm, a show that is sure to draw a crowd from all around the region, as well as astound the entire family. Entry for Friday’s show will be by donation, with proceeds raised going to Prince Rupert Special Events Society.
The full Naden Band of the Maritime Forces Pacific will be performing during the Seafest celebrations, being featured twice on Saturday, the first performance being in the annual parade, as well as in the Bandstand Music Entertainment event in front of City Hall, with the Naden Band taking the stage at 4 pm. Additionally, the band will perform twice on Sunday, the first time at the Kwinitsa Station bandstand at 1:25 pm, and the second at the Mariner’s Park Memorial Service starting at 6 pm.
“They were fabulous. They give you chills when they play. It’s very emotional and thrilling listening to them because they are so professional. I’ve seen five-year olds to eighty-five year-olds just stop dead in their tracks to listen to them. They are captivating,” commented Joy.