On June 6th, 2024, Saint Thomas More Collegiate hosted its annual Music Banquet, bringing together students from the music department for a delightful evening. The event featured a communal dinner where students socialized and celebrated their shared passion for music. Highlighting the night, band teacher Mrs. MacLellan presented awards to outstanding students, recognizing their dedication and achievements throughout the year. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and pride, reflecting the strong sense of community within the music program. The banquet was a memorable occasion, honoring both the students' hard work and the supportive spirit of the department.

STMC's Jazz Band A delivered an incredible performance at the VSO Day of Music held at Christ Church Cathedral, captivating the audience with their dynamic and impressive performances. The event provided a unique opportunity for the students to perform in a prestigious venue, enhancing their musical experience and exposure. Their outstanding performance received enthusiastic applause, underscoring the talent and dedication of these young musicians.

The Spring Junior Music Night at Saint Thomas More Collegiate on Monday, May 13, 2024, was a vibrant showcase of young musical talent. The evening featured captivating performances by the choirs, Grade 8 Band, Junior Band, Elementary Band, Saxophone Quartet, and the Jazz Combo. Each ensemble delivered exceptional renditions, reflecting their dedication and skill. The event was further highlighted by the presence of two special guests from the municipal government, who praised the students' efforts and the school's commitment to arts education. The night was a testament to the students' hard work and the supportive community at Saint Thomas More Collegiate.

Jazz Band B brought a youthful energy and fun perspective to the Surrey Jazz Festival, delighting audiences with their spirited performance. With their 3 songs, they earned enthusiastic applause from the crowd and their great adjudicator at their clinic. Their passion for music and dedication to their craft shone brightly, leaving a lasting impression at the festival.

Jazz Band A illuminated the stage at the Surrey Jazz Festival with their mesmerizing performance, performing three songs. With wonderful melodies and incredible solos, they effortlessly transported the audience to the heart of jazz music. Their passionate delivery and musical mastery left an indelible mark, and they grew even stronger with their clinic following their performance.

Featuring Senior Jazz Band and Concert Band members

STMC's Jazz Band A delivered a stellar performance at the STMC Open House, infusing the event with the vibrant energy of jazz. The ensemble's musicianship was exceptional, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. With solos and a saxophone quartet that stood out, the band showcased their versatility and skill, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and contributing to the success of the open house.

With Jazz Band putting on a pre-show performance to Music Knight, the first band group to perform was Junior Band, made up of students in grade 9 and 10. Their setlist consisted of:

• A Festive Fanfare by Brian Balmages

• In Autumn by William Owens

• A Swingin' Christmas arrangement by Johnny Vinson 

• Byzantine Dances by Carol Britten Chambers.

Elementary Band was the next band group to perform:

• Up on the Housetop by Michael Sweeney 

• Jingle Bells: by J. Pierpont and arrangement by Michael Sweeney

Grade 8 Band followed with:

• Fanfare Heroica by Brian Balmages

• Christmas Mash-up by Larry Clark

Senior Concert Band, comprised of students in grade 11 and 12 brought the night to a close with:

• March of the Belgian Paratroopers by Pierre Leemans and arrangement by Swearingen

• Ammerland by Jacob de Haan

• A Charlie Brown Christmas arrangement by Paul Murtha

• Themes from The Nutcracker arrangement by Ed Huckeby

The CISVA Jr. Band Day at Holy Cross Secondary on November 24th 2023 was a musical extravaganza, featuring vibrant performances from Notre Dame, Saint Thomas Aquinas, Archbishop Carney, and Holy Cross bands. Each school showcased two songs, delving into sectional clinics for further refinement. The crescendo arrived as all schools joined forces for two harmonious final pieces, skillfully directed by Mr. Shoemaker. The day resonated with shared melodies, fostering a sense of community and musical unity.

"BAND-A-PALOOZA, meticulously coordinated by the visionary Ms. MacLellan, is an exhilarating music extravaganza that harmoniously blends a vibrant mix of musical genres and talents into a sensational one-day festival. Notably, on November 3rd, 2023, the junior and senior bands shared a special night of bonding at Saint Thomas More Collegiate, fostering camaraderie and musical unity. With a pulsating lineup of diverse bands, this event transforms the air into a symphony of rhythms, captivating enthusiasts of all tastes. From indie rock to jazz, pop to folk, the stages are alive with electrifying performances that transcend boundaries, uniting music aficionados. BAND-A-PALOOZA stands as a testament to the universal language of music, celebrating diversity and fostering a collective love for the art form."

STMC's "First Note Night" was an extraordinary musical experience that brought together elementary school students, eager grade 8s, and new band students to the world of band music. This magical evening was meticulously organized by the dedicated team led by our passionate band teacher, Ms. MacLellan. Under the guidance of Ms. MacLellan and with the invaluable assistance of professional musicians from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO), the event unfolded with a harmonious blend of enthusiasm and expertise.

The heart of "First Note Night" was a comprehensive learning experience, where students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of music. VSO professionals shared their invaluable insights and technical know-how, nurturing budding musicians and instilling a profound appreciation for the art. From mastering the intricacies of instruments to understanding the nuances of rhythm and melody, participants received a solid foundation that would serve as their musical launchpad.

This event not only fostered musical talent but also ignited a passion for creativity and self-expression. "First Note Night" was a testament to the transformative power of music education, and it left a lasting impression on all who attended, sparking a lifelong love for the magic of melodies.

The talented musicians from our school's music department, including both the dynamic band and the harmonious choir, took center stage at the prestigious Chan Centre on UBC's campus. 

The evening offered a diverse range of musical experiences that captivated the audience's hearts. The performers, adorned in their finest attire, poured their hearts and souls into each note, leaving us spellbound with their virtuosity and unity.

The Chan Centre, with its acoustically stunning auditorium and elegant architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for this musical extravaganza. It was a testament to the collaborative efforts of our students, faculty, and staff who had dedicated countless hours to rehearsing and perfecting their craft.

As the final notes resonated through the hall, the audience rose to their feet in thunderous applause, a testament to the awe-inspiring talent that had graced the stage that evening. It was a night that reminded us of the power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. We look forward to many more such evenings of musical magic at the Chan Centre in the years to come.