A History of the Canadian Band Association for the CBA’s 75th Anniversary

 

written by Ken Epp for Canadian Winds – September 2006

 

 

It’s been given up for dead more than once—and been put on life support a few times—but today, 75 years after its founding, the Canadian Band Association (CBA) is alive and doing well.

 

With a growing list of programs and services and programs to more than 1,500 members and 100,000 musicians, it’s hard to believe that there was a time when the CBA’s very survival was in doubt. But on at least two occasions the association was almost given up for dead, and all but one chapter has withdrawn its membership or ceased to exist at one time or another.

 

Yet the CBA has persevered and prospered—a testament to the hard work and hopes of so many key people who have prodded and pushed the organization to succeed.

 

The concept of the Canadian Band Association dates back to 1918 when Captain John Slatter proposed the formation of an association of Canadian bandmasters. Three years later Andrew "Al" Robertson and several Toronto businessmen arranged for the Canadian National Exhibition to offer cash prizes for a band contest. In 1924 competing bandsmen at the CNE formed the Ontario Amateur Band Association (OABA), electing Charles Thiele as president.

 

On September 1, 1931, 35 bandmasters gathered at the CNE to form the Canadian Bandmasters Association and elect Slatter as President. Since their membership base was primarily in Ontario and Quebec, the new group focused on activities in those provinces. In 1937 the CBA successfully amended the Municipal Act of Ontario so that any community could vote to provide permanent support for their local band—something done by about 50 communities.

 

However interest in the association faded, and in 1942, 18 remaining members met to consider surrendering the charter. Thiele and T. E. Jackson encouraged the organization to carry on. Jackson was elected as President and Robertson was appointed Secretary/Treasurer.

 

In 1948 the CBA absorbed the OABA and the CNE band contest became a CBA project.

 

There was a flurry of activity in 1954, beginning with an application for chapter status from Alberta. Over the next four years bandmasters from other provinces applied to join and, by 1958, the CBA had coast-to-coast representation. A national council was formed as a parent body with E. Von Ayres elected the first National President.

 

First Provincial Presidents

 

British Columbia - Lt. S. E. F. Sunderland, Esquimalt

Alberta - F/Lt. Carl Friberg, Edmonton

Saskatchewan - J. Norman Lehman, North Battleford

Manitoba - C. P. O. Thos. I. Tucker, Winnipeg

Ontario/Quebec - Paul Pratt, Longueil, QC

Maritimes - Lt. K. A. Elloway, Halifax

 

* Ontario and Quebec became separate chapters in 1963

 

In the years that followed school band programs were introduced. Since there was little formal training available for teachers, the CBA responded by introducing its own Course of Instruction. Courses and examinations were developed and diplomas of L.C.B.A. (Licentiate) and F.C.B.A. (Fellowship) were granted.

 

The death of Al Robertson in February, 1967 was hard on the CBA. As editor of the The Canadian Bandmaster and Secretary/Treasurer for 25 years, he was the face of the association to many members. That summer’s edition of The Canadian Bandmaster was almost entirely dedicated to Robertson’s memory, and included a testimonial from each chapter.

 

Robertson’s passing, illness among several chapter leaders, and the growth of school based band proved challenging for the CBA. The publication ceased and, within two years, Nova Scotia reported it had separated from the Maritime chapter, and B.C. and Manitoba reported their chapters to be inoperative.

 

In 1969, partly in an effort to connect with school teachers, the CBA changed its name to the Canadian Band Directors Association and briefly affiliated with the Canadian Music Educators Association. The effort to attract teachers wasn’t successful; by 1971 both Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia were inactive, no meetings were being held by the Maritime chapter and Quebec had relinquished its charter. Only Alberta and Ontario remained.

 

There was little CBDA activity in the early 1970s, although it appears that Keith Mann was working to rekindle interest in the national association. By 1975 British Columbia was talking of reconstituting its chapter, and there was interest in Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan. The following year representatives from B.C. and Manitoba received a travel subsidy to attend a national meeting.

 

This renewed interest led to discussion of a national syllabus and a National Youth Band and, in 1976, Mann released the first Canadian Band Journal. It was printed as a high school project. The next year Manitoba became the first province to rejoin the CBDA.

 

Yet more challenges lay ahead. Two years after the first National Youth Band was held at the 1978 CBDA Conference in Toronto, Ontario reported that its Treasurer had taken out a personal loan to cover the chapter's debt. To make matters worse, the CNE discontinued its band contest in 1981. Organizing this event had long been a source of pride for the association, and for 15 years the contest had contributed 7 percent of the prize money to the CBDA. Ontario was on the verge of surrendering its charter.

 

CBA Chapter History

 

British Columbia - joins in 1956, inactive in 1969, rejoins in 1999

Alberta – joins in 1954, withdraws in 2000, rejoins in 2002

Saskatchewan – joins in 1957, inactive in 1971, rejoins in 1983

Manitoba – joins in 1957, inactive in 1969, rejoins in 1977

Ontario – joint chapter status with Quebec begins in 1956, separates from Quebec in 1963, a second Ontario chapter joins in 2004

Quebec – joint chapter status with Ontario begins in 1956, separates from Ontario in 1963, relinquishes chapter status in 1971, rejoins in 1986, a second Quebec chapter joins in 2004

New Brunswick – joins as part of Maritime chapter in 1957, inactive in 1971, rejoins as part of Maritime chapter in 1986, forms provincial chapter in 1991

Prince Edward Island – joins as part of Maritime chapter in 1957, inactive in 1971, rejoins as part of Maritime chapter in 1986, connects through Nova Scotia chapter beginning in 1991

Nova Scotia– joins as part of Maritime chapter in 1957, inactive in 1971, rejoins as part of Maritime chapter in 1986, forms provincial chapter in 1991

Newfoundland/Labrador – joins in 1995, inactive in 2003

 

At the 1982 annual general meeting, held at the Midwest Band Clinic in Chicago, the discussion focused on the CBDA's future. Although some feared the association wouldn’t survive, the lengthy meeting resulted in a new constitution, the election of an Executive representing the three member provinces, and the appointment of cabinet designates from the five non-member provinces.

 

Soon after the Chicago meeting Saskatchewan rejoined the association and, by late 1984, CBDA had established ties with the Federation des Harmonies du Quebec, begun discussions with the Canadian Stage Band Festival regarding a National Concert Band Festival, and hired Guy Mallabone as part time Managing Director.

 

In 1986, under the leadership of President Larry Pearen, the CBDA changed its name to the Canadian Band Association. Soon after, the Federation des Harmonies du Quebec and Maritime Band Association were accepted as chapters. A sponsorship agreement with Air Canada followed and Saskatchewan's Band Week project was adopted as a national celebration in 1987.

 

As the 1980s came to a close, several chapters secured government funding, while a new focus on school band led to a surge in membership. A chapter was resurrected in British Columbia and discussion turned to reviving the National Youth Band and establishing a chapter in Newfoundland/Labrador.

 

The first NYB in 13 years performed at the 1991 CMEA conference in Vancouver. (For a more complete history of the NYB see Jim Forde's chronicle in CW 3.1) Later that year the CBA's first Directory was printed and the Maritime Band Association was dissolved to allow Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to pursue funding as separate provincial associations. As well, PEI became part of the NSBA.

 

By 1994 the NYB had found a home at MusicFest and, in 1995, the birth of a CBA chapter in Newfoundland & Labrador connected every province to the national association.

 

As the new millennium approached, the CBA sought to secure its long-term stability by introducing a new dues formula, approving a chapter travel subsidy for the semi-annual national meetings, and creating a Long Term Plan.

 

In May, 2001 Keith Mann passed away. Mann had been a pillar on the Canadian band scene and among many other things, served as editor of the Canadian Band Journal for 25 years. When the CBA had been unable to sustain the journal financially, Mann insured continued publication and sent a copy to every CBA member. His passing was mourned by the band community from coast to coast.

 

Recognizing the importance of a national journal, Don Harris put in place the groundwork for a new publication. Tim Maloney and Denise Grant were invited to serve as co-editors and, in 2002, the first issue of Canadian Winds was dedicated to the memory of Robertson and Mann.

 

Later that year the Newfoundland/Labrador chapter ceased operation, but Alberta rejoined the CBA after a two year absence.

 

In 2003 the CBA adopted a National Voluntary Curriculum and Standards for Instrumental Music (Band). Chapter dues were increased to re-establish a part time Executive Director position and ensure the long-term survival of Canadian Winds and the National Youth Band.

 

The following year the Quebec Band Association and Ontario Band Association joined the CBA. Although both provinces were already represented on the board, the support of existing chapters in those provinces enabled the QBA and OBA to be included in the national association.

 

Today the CBA's strength lies with its chapters and the 100-plus programs and services the provinces offer. Semi-annual meetings provide an opportunity to share information about these activities, and it is not uncommon to see projects replicated in other chapters.

 

2006 CBA Programs & Services

 

• Awards program

• Canadian Winds

• Concert Band Festival Repertoire List.

• Directory

• Monthly member Enews

• National Youth Band

• National Voluntary Curriculum and Standards for Instrumental Music (Band)

• Online theory project (in production)

The dedication of numerous volunteers has enabled the CBA to face and surmount many challenges. Today the association, with its expanding roster of national programs and services, is well positioned to meet the challenges of the next 75 years.

 

Canadian Band Association Historic Dates - compiled by Ken Epp

1918

Captain John Slatter suggests a Canadian association of bandmasters be formed.

1921

Al Robertson and several Toronto business men arrange for the Canadian National Exhibition to offer cash prizes for a band contest.

1924

Competing bandsmen meet at CNE festival to form Ontario Amateur Band Association. Charles Thiele elected president.

1931

01-Sep

"Following the CNE Band festival, 35 bandmasters gather to form the Canadian Bandmasters Association. Slatter elected President."

1933

Formal application made for a national charter.

1934

20-Apr

Letters Patent received from Ottawa.

1937

CBA successfully amends Municipal Act of Ontario making it possible for any community to vote on permanent support for the local band. About 50 communities use the Ontario Band Tax Law to support local bands.

1942

Eighteen members meet to consider surrendering charter as interest in CBA fades. Thiele and T. E. Jackson encourage organization to carry on. Jackson elected as President. Robertson appointed Secretary.

1948

CBA absorbs OABA and authorizes a committee to run CNE band contest.

1954

16-Oct

Alberta applies for chapter status.

1955

Apr/May

Jean Bach of Quebec advises Ontario that the Amateur Bands Association of Quebec will send a delegation to all CBA conventions and gatherings.

13-Aug

Ontario/Quebec request joint chapter status.

1956

Oct 10-12

Ontario/Quebec combine as second CBA chapter.

27-Oct

Dominion Council renamed National Council.

27-Dec

BC meets to form chapter.

1957

25-Jan

Manitoba meets to form chapter.

03-Feb

Saskatchewan meets to form chapter. Quebec requests their own chapter and Ont/Quebec chapter is dissolved.

05-Oct

Bandmasters meet in Amherst discuss formation of Maritime chapter.

1958

CBA bank account split equally between National and Ontario/Quebec chapter.

1963

29-Jun

Quebec formally requests chapter status.

1964

National Convention discusses the possibility of a National Youth Band.

1965

16-Jul

"Agreed that after 1965, conferences will be held bi-annually."

1967

Feb

"CBA newsletter editor, Robertson passes away and after a memorial issue, newsletter is discontinued."

1968

11-Nov

CBA agrees to change its name to the Canadian Band Directors Association. CBDA affiliates with the Canadian Music Educators Association. Manitoba reports that it has been inoperative since late 1966.

1969

25-Aug

BC reports it is inoperative. Nova Scotia requests and is granted permission to create chapter separate from Maritime chapter.

1970

Alberta expresses concern about lack of communication with National.

1971

11-Nov

CBA feels CMEA cease their affiliation. Nova Scotia reports to be inactive. No meetings being held in NB or PEI. Quebec has relinquished charter. Saskatchewan apparently inactive. Alberta and Ontario are active. After much discussion it was agreed that the National Council continue.

1972

Alberta votes to remain connected with National.

1974

Ontario and Alberta begin exchange of newsletters. Keith Mann reports BC chapter may soon be established.

1975

"Bob Brown to reconstitute BC chapter. Alberta to refund $5 per BC resident currently an ABA member. Keith Mann reports on CBDA interest in PEI, SK and BC. National meeting costs are paid by CBDA (1/2), chapter (1/4), individual (1/4)"

1976

16-Jan

Martin Boundy suggests a NYB be formed for '78 convention. National syllabus to be created. MB & BC travel costs are reimbursed. Keith Mann to edit a national newsletter.

Sep

Mann publishes first Canadian Band Journal.

04-Nov

Mann reports that Manitoba wishes to initiate a chapter. East Kootenay applies as CBDA chapter.

1977

Feb

Manitoba forms new chapter.

1978

Aug 19-22

Ontario oversees creation of first NYB for national conference.

1979

15-Dec

"Harry Pinchin, Dennis Orr, Vondis Miller and Duke Pier meet to set time line and contract a 1980 NYB director."

1980

Alberta unable to access provincial 75th anniversary funds for 1980 NYB. Ontario is in debt and considers surrendering charter. ABA hosts national convention in Calgary. National Executive reactivates constitution and sets up a Trust Deed and Declaration for NYB.

1981

30-Aug

CBDA discontinues operation of CNE contest.

1982

05-Nov

"Saskatchewan begins to form a chapter, Manitoba has a charter. Discussion of whether the Alberta chapter can provide enough delegates to form a quorum at upcoming CBDA meeting in Chicago. Suggestion to move CBDA head office to Calgary."

12-Dec

Alberta nominates Bob Eklund as CBDA President.

15-Dec

New constitution ratified after 6 hours of discussion.

1983

Nov

Ontario chapter has 150 members and Saskatchewan holds first conference in Regina on September 24.

1984

Feb

CMEA approached about NYB performing at national conference in London in spring 1985.

26-Oct

National meeting in Red Deer draws representation from 4 western provinces.

Dec 12-15

"It is agreed to develop a National Concert Band Festival with the Canadian Stage Band Festival, strengthen ties with the Federation des Harmonies du Quebec, and hire a part time CBDA Managing Director (Guy Mallabone)."

1985

Dec 19-20

CBDA enters into gentleman's agreement with the Canadian Music Festivals Association (formerly CSBF). Agreement says participating bands must be members of CBDA or affiliate chapter.

1986

08-May

Name change to Canadian Band Association is approved in letters patent.

Oct 23-24

"Under the leadership of CBA President Leary Pearen, and following visits to their provincial conferences, the Federation des Harmonies and Maritime Band Association joined the CBA."

Dec 18-19

"MusicFest asks CBA to be involved with selection of concert band syllabus. Each chapter to submit additions and deletions to CBA President and MusicFest Concert Band Festival chairperson, Keith Mann."

CBA Journals distributed to prospective BC members.

1987

May 30-31

Plans made for Canadian Band Week project in fall. Air Canada terminates sponsorship.

Dec 17-18

CBA agrees to leave membership dues at $10 (25% of provincial fee).

1988

Nov 11-12

Keith Mann offered a contract to be Publications Officer for both the Directory and Journal. CBA spends a day with outside facilitator developing a Long Term Plan

1989

Dec 15-16

BC rejoins CBA and there is discussion about possible new chapter in Newfoundland. Discussion to revive the National Youth Band.

1990

Jun 9-10

Discussion with Joan Therens regarding CBA's involvement in the '91 CMEA convention in BC. Frank Dunnigan presents a proposal for a 1991 National Youth Band. The 52-member band would be for 16-18 year olds and cost $700 per student.

Dec 21-22

National Music Award renamed National Band Award.

1991

Jan

MusicFest prints CBA Directory.

May

First NYB since 1978 held in conjunction with CMEA conference. CBA sponsors sessions at the conference.

02-Nov

"CBA advised that Maritime Band Association will be umbrella group for associations in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI to pursue provincial government funding."

Dec 21-22

"CBA asks President (or designate) to be CMEA liaison. CBA prints 20,000 Instrument Care Brochure"

1992

26-May

MusicFest invites National Youth Band to play at festival.

Dec 18-19

Manitoba membership survey is the basis for a complete review of CBA focus.

Distinguished Student Musicianship Certificate introduced

1993

Apr

Lack of registration causes cancellation of 1993 NYB in Quebec.

Jun 12-13

Plan for NYB to be held in conjunction with MusicFest.

30-Sep

United Musical Instruments agrees to print Directory. MusicFest Canada continues to prepare Directory database.

1994

May

NYB plays feature concert at MusicFest in Toronto.

1995

Jun 3-4

Long Term Plan Developed. CBA subsidizes Doug Vaughan's meeting expenses in hope of developing a new chapter in Newfoundland.

1997

Dec 19-20

New dues formula approved;

1998

Jun 5-6

Subsidy travel plan introduced to cover 50% of chapter rep's airfare.

Nov 27-28

CBA considers invitation for NYB to play at ISME 2000 conference in Edmonton.

1999

Jun 4-5

Tim Linsley appointed to produce Directory. CBA purchases a liability insurance policy and makes it available to chapters.

29-Oct

ABA withdraws from CBA noting provincial finances and lack of support for Alberta proposals.

2000

Jun 1-2

CBA considers a SBA initiative for a National Administrative Guidelines document for instrumental music programs. CBA establishes a website. CBA provides honourarium for NYB Manager.

Dec 1-2

UMI asks that Directory be printed every second year.

2001

May

Keith Mann passes away - Canadian Band Journal ceases.

Jun 1-2

Chapters invited to bid to host NYB. Newfoundland/Labrador Band Association (NLBA) reported in difficulty. Mark Friesen and Steve Sherman (Alberta) attend CBA meeting as guests.

Oct

Alberta rejoins CBA.

Nov 30-1

CBA archival material sent to National Library of Canada. CBA considers Don Harris and Denise Grant's proposal for a CBA national journal.

2002

May 31-1

"Jim Forde reports on effort to keep NLBA alive. Don Harris reports on developments regarding new journal. CBA allocates $3,000 as seed money for Canadian Winds. Denise Grant and Tim Maloney named as co-editors. Richard Soren hired to handle production."

Oct

First issue of Canadian Winds.

Nov 10-11

Connie Turner leads development of CBA Festival Repertoire List.

2003

Oct

Denise Grant resigns as co-editor. Daniel Doyon and Fraser Linklater appointed as Assistant editors.

Nov 28-29

Chapters approve 80% increase in dues to support CW and hire an Executive Director. Tim Linsley hired as Publications Manager (CW and Directory). Ken Epp contracted for ad sales.

CBA adopts National Voluntary Curriculum and Standards for Instrumental Music (Band); A Creative Project; and Technical Standards for Percussion.

2004

01-Jan

Ken Epp contracted as part time CBA Executive Director.

12-Jan

First issue of CBA monthly Enews.

May 7-8

CBA approves application from the Quebec Band Association and Ontario Band Association to join CBA. CBA approves dues of $12/person based on number of CW mailing labels from each chapter.

Dec 3-4

Travel subsidy plan increases funding for chapters to attend meetings. Donation program launched for on-line theory program. Board approves updated Repertoire List developed by Jacquie Dawson and a national committee.

2005

May 13-14

"Donations for on-line theory project reach $10,000 goal."

2006

October

CBA celebrates 75th anniversary.

Nov 23-25

CBA meets with CMEA in Winnipeg to discuss cooperative projects. Adrian Bourgeois replaces Elizabeth Sayrs as on-line theory program production manager.

Canadian Band Association Council Meetings

AGM

Year

Mid Year Meeting

Location

AGM

Location

1931

01-Sep

Toronto

1

1932

27-Dec

Toronto

2

1933

09-Jul

Waterloo

3

1934

Aug 31 - Sep 1

Toronto

4

1935

26-Oct

Montreal

5

1936

Jul 22-24

Chatham

6

1937

Jul 23-24

Owen Sound

7

1938

Jul 9-11

Sarnia

8

1939

Sep 1-2

Toronto

9

1940

-

10

1941

-

11

1942

-

12

1943

Jul 16-17

Chatham

13

1944

Jul 14-16

Stradford

14

1945

Sep 14-16

Belleville

15

1946

Sep 6-8

Waterloo

16

1947

-

17

1948

Aug 13-15

London

18

1949

Aug 5-7

Peterborough

19

1950

-

20

1951

Aug 10-12

Midland

21

1952

Jul 25-27

Wallaceberg

22

1953

Aug 14-16

Owen Sound

23

1954

Jul 30-1

Barrie

24

1955

Aug 12-14

London

25

1956

Aug 10-12

Midland

26

1957

Jul 26-28

Gravenhurst

27

1958

-

28

1959

Jul 17-19

Banff

29

1960

Jul 15-17

Oshawa

30

1961

Jul 8-10

Halifax

31

1962

Jul 6-8

London

32

1963

Jun 28-30

Moose Jaw

33

1964

Jul 17-19

Orillia

34

1965

Jul 16-18

Quebec

35

1966

Apr

Waterloo

36

1967

Jul 7-9

Moose Jaw

37

1968

Nov 10/11

Toronto

38

1969

25-Aug

Toronto

39

1970

-

40

1971

Nov 11-13

Banff

41

1972

-

42

1973

-

43

1974

-

44

1975

?

Ontario

45

1976

16-Jan

London

Nov 4-6

Edmonton

46

1977

-

47

1978

Aug 19-22

Toronto

48

1979

-

49

1980

Nov 19-22

Calgary

50

1981

-

51

1982

15-Dec

Chicago

52

1983

Dec

Chicago

53

1984

26-Oct

Red Deer

Dec 12-15

Chicago

54

1985

Dec 19-20

Chicago

55

1986

23-Oct

Calgary

Dec 18-19

Chicago

56

1987

May 30-31

Saskatoon

Dec 17-18

Chicago

57

1988

Nov 11-12

Toronto

58

1989

June 2-3

Montreal

Dec 15-16

Chicago

59

1990

June 8-9 - Regina & Oct 26-27 - Dartmouth

Dec 21-22

Chicago

60

1991

May 10-11

Vancouver

Dec 21-22

Chicago

61

1992

June 12-14

Toronto

Dec 18-19

Chicago

62

1993

June 11-13

Toronto

Dec 3-4

Edmonton

63

1994

June 10-11

Montreal

Dec 2-3

Regina

64

1995

June 3-4

Halifax

Dec 2-3

Toronto

65

1996

May 31- June 1

Vancouver

Dec 20-21

Chicago

66

1997

June 6-7

Edmonton

Dec 19-20

Chicago

67

1998

June 5-6

Winnipeg

Nov 27-28

Fredricton

68

1999

June 4-5

Saskatoon

Nov 26-27

Montreal

69

2000

June 1-2

Halifax

Dec 1-2

Toronto

70

2001

June 1-2

Vancouver

Nov 30 - Dec 1

Hull

71

2002

May 31 - June 1

Moncton

Nov 10-11

Winnipeg

72

2003

May 30-31

Edmonton

Nov 28-29

Toronto

73

2004

May 7-8

Halifax

Dec 3-4

Montreal

74

2005

May 13-14

Regina

Dec 2-3

Vancouver

75

2006

May 12-13

Edmonton

Nov 23 & 25

Winnipeg

76

2007

May 4-5

Halifax