It’s been a long time since I picked up my saxophone and played it. This is in stark contrast to my high school days when I practiced my saxophone every single day. Yes, you heard right, every single day!

I went to an arts high school (think of the movie Fame) and was in the instrumental music or band program. I had band class every day, in addition to countless rehearsals before and after school and during lunch. I performed on stage at Kiwanis festivals, school concerts and musicals. I was in concert band, symphonic band, jazz band, jazz combo and saxophone quartets; the list goes on. Yes, this was my life for 5 years, but you know what, I loved it!

Granted it was stressful at times, even challenging, trying to balance a rigorous music program at the same time as academia, but the training I received in those 5 years was priceless. (Actually if truth be told, it would cost quite a bit in private tuition.) In university, although music was not my major, I did join the concert band and played in it for several years.

Nowadays, I sit on the opposite side of the stage listening and watching musicians play beautiful music. I love to listen to different bands and orchestras. If you’re like me and like to check out great live music and have a Sunday afternoon free, then you don’t want to miss the Pickering Community Concert Band’s upcoming Spring Concert on Sunday, April 26 @ 2pm @ Forest Brook Community Church in Ajax. They will be bringing you music from around the world including Caribbean, Asian, European and Latin American favourites. Tickets are: Adults, $15.00, Over 65 and Under 18, $10.00, and are available in advance from any band member or by calling 905-427-5443 or at the door.

Support our local musicians and enjoy some repertoire from around the world!

About the Author

Wendy Chiavalon is the Editor-in-Chief of The Local Biz Magazine. She lives in Ajax with her family. She loves watching Pixar movies, salsa dancing, road trips and of course, baking and eating cakes (who wouldn’t)?! In her spare time, she doubles as a cake decorator, baking and decorating cakes and other goodies for special occasions. You can check out some of her work at www.wendyscakeshoppe.com and follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wendyscakeshoppe