The Music Program Makes Its 2022 Debut!

Written by: Leena El-Said

Photos by: Leena El-Said

Contributor: Zara Ahluwalia

The music program has had an exciting start of the year, with two major events already under its belt as students were paid a visit by guest musician, Brian Balmages, and headed off to their cherished yearly band trip.  

On October 7th, T.A. Blakelock was visited by the well-known musician Brian Balmages; the composer behind several of the pieces that the music ensembles have been working on throughout the year. This provided an incredible opportunity for the music students to gain knowledge from a professional in the music industry. 

Throughout the day, Brian Balmages visited Blakelock's ninth credit ensemble and the grade ten music class, who played the piece “Furioso”, working to extend their knowledge of notes and stylistic choices. After school, the Senior Wind Ensemble Band spent time with Brian, practicing his very own piece, Open Space, as they focused on enhancing their music technique and taking their playing to the next level. 

Following this experience, music students continued their learning momentum. They headed to Circle Square Ranch on October 13th for their highly anticipated annual Band Camp trip. After its successful return last year, students from grade 9-12 returned to the ranch, bringing back traditions and coming together as a program with a day of fun activities and music workshops. 

“It’s a way to connect with other band mates, make friends and honestly just fool around and have fun throughout the day while also learning and improving as a band”, says grade twelve musician Zania Jackson, who has been a part of the music program since grade nine.

The highlight of this trip was the opportunity for music students to rehearse and learn from the incredibly well versed and adored composer, Colin Clarke, who inspired students through his engaging rehearsals. The Symphonic Winds and Ninth Credit class worked with Colin Clarke to further extend their musical range and interpretation of phrasing and strengthen their unity as a band. Wind Ensemble worked on building shape and dynamics in their pieces and each instrument section was given thoughtful criticism that led to a powerful improvement as the band played with more passion and unity than ever before.

The music students were also given the opportunity to participate in a drumming workshop with Blakelock Alumni, Ryan Mackinnon, who revisited the school's music program to share his insight on mastering rhythms.

Throughout the day, students were given the freedom to spend time outdoors with a wide array of activities available, including a scavenger hunt, rock climbing, manhunt and volleyball games. 

The final part of the day, to end off this experience, a campfire was held. Students gathered around a fire, shared stories, played songs on the ukulele, and made long lasting memories. 

The music program is well underway, as it plans for upcoming performances and more exciting events coming this year.