Building on the momentum of a year filled with enriched learning opportunities for the Bishop Allen Academy Music Program, the Bishop Allen Big Band has achieved a GOLD sweep this spring. Under the direction of Davide Garofalo, the ensemble secured two Gold Standings and two official invitations to the MusicFest Canada Nationals from two of the province’s most prestigious regional jazz festivals.
The Road to Gold
The band's first festival performance took place on March 5, when the ensemble traveled to Humber College for the Next Generation Jazz Festival. Performing for a panel of distinguished jazz adjudicators, the students showcased their craftsmanship and artistic expression. Following their performance, the band participated in a workshop, receiving guidance from professional musicians on how to refine their sound and elevate their musicianship.
On April 15, the band traveled to York University for the GTA MusicFest Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo Festival for their second performance. Although there were last-minute changes to the band’s personnel lineup due to scheduling conflicts and medical circumstances, the momentum continued. Taking the feedback from their previous performance and applying it with intent and focus, the band delivered a standout performance that once again caught the ears of world-class adjudicators and musicians. The band also took part in a clinic following their performance where they received further instruction on getting to the next level.
Bringing Curriculum to Life
Performing at these festivals represents more than just competition; they are the culmination of BA Music’s commitment to enriched experiential learning experiences for its students. By stepping out of the classroom and onto professional stages, students see firsthand what success looks like when hard work, perseverance, and teamwork are applied through a creative lens. These festivals and the journey to get there are fantastic ways of bringing the curriculum to life, as they allow our students to showcase their developing craft while understanding the discipline required to perform at a higher level.
Next Stop: The Nationals and Beyond
As a result of their Gold Standings at both Humber and York University, the Bishop Allen Big Band received two official invitations to the MusicFest Canada Nationals. This achievement places them among the amazing school ensembles in the country invited to perform on the national stage in Niagara Falls.
The ensemble has an exciting and busy schedule ahead:
April 24: Performance and exchange at Sir Robert Borden High School in Ottawa.
May 4: Opening for Big Smoke Brass at the Bishop Allen’s Music Monday Celebration
May 13: Performance at MusicFest Canada Nationals in Niagara Falls.
May 14: Annual Spring Concert at Bishop Allen Academy.
The Bishop Allen community extends a heartfelt congratulations to all the student musicians for their dedication and outstanding achievements. Their success is a testament to the thriving culture of excellence and creativity within Bishop Allen.
