Band Camp: “Banding” Together to make some Memories

Written By: Nino Nguyen, Alyssa Psaila

Photos By: Mrs. Abbott, Amy Li

Edited By: Zara Ahluwalia 

Contributor: Arjun Venkatesh, Gloria Shi

On Thursday, October 5, 2023, the beloved music department departed TAB at 9 a.m. to attend their annual Band Camp at Circle Square Ranch in Brampton. Students from Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Choir, Ninth Credit, and the Grade 12 Leadership class were all invited to participate in this experience. 

After their arrival at the camp, musicians in ensembles participated in their rehearsals and sectionals, as well as in a variety of fun activities, including rock climbing, archery, an obstacle course, a drumming workshop, and much more.

Aside from all the exciting activities, Dr. Colleen Richardson, an associate professor and coordinator of bands at Western Music, came as a guest conductor and worked with several bands to help improve their musicality. 

“I’d say Colleen is pretty professional. Personally, her conducting style wasn’t for me, but she’s funny and always in a good mood which is always nice to have,” stated a grade 12 student in Wind Ensemble. 

Throughout the day, musicians also participated in a scavenger hunt filled with a list of fun photo prompts letting them explore the different parts of camp. The students travelled around the ranch, visiting the various farm animals and taking wacky photos. Then, later in the day, the Grade 12 leadership class conducted some team-building games, encouraging everyone to collaborate with their peers to win some cooperative games.

Every year at Band Camp, all students participate in a “manhunt/sardines” game. The game takes place over the entire camp with two grade 11 students, Diana Efthimiadis and Henry Fryer, starting out as the ‘Seeker. After two vigorous rounds, the game finished with the ‘Hiders’ taking the win.

To end their day off, everyone gathered around the ranch’s campfire, a tradition loved by many. Beloved music teacher, Mrs. Barry, had brought a guitar, which students were allowed to play. Everyone was encouraged to sing along to the hearty campfire songs. 

The legendary music teacher, Mrs. Abbott, had bought many snacks to share, while others brought their own snacks including classic marshmallows that some students roasted over the fire. After a day packed with many activities, this campfire was the perfect time for students to relax, talk with their friends, and make long-lasting memories together.  

“Band Camp was super fun, with the drumming workshop and group manhunt specifically. I also gained a lot of experience from Dr. Colleen Richardson. Overall, I really enjoyed it,” enthused grade 9 student, Sakura Funahashi, sharing her first experience at Band Camp. 

Overall, the day was jam-packed with fun times. Many students from the music department can certainly agree that Band Camp, as always, was a complete success.