The Greater Victoria Concert Band Novice Band is the place for you to learn and play that instrument* you always wanted to learn to play, whether you
- have never played a musical instrument
- don’t know how to read music
- simply want to become “reacquainted” with an instrument you played in the middle or high school band, or
- currently play another instrument but want to expand your
The Novice Band offers new players a warm and friendly atmosphere, where the emphasis is on having fun while learning. Novice Band starts in mid-September and runs until mid-June, but you can join at any time of the year.
We are an adult group and welcome ages 19 to 99.
Our conductor, Yvonne Norris, has an extensive knowledge of band instruments and loves to provide instruction on musical theory and how to play. We typically start off with the Standards of Excellence, Book One, which is available at Long and McQuade or might be found at a used book store or on-line.
We meet weekly on Wednesday, 6:00 to 7:00, at St. Andrew’s School, 880 Mackenzie Ave. (The band room has a separate entrance on the east side of the building). Currently our dates for 2025 are:
January: 8, 15, 22, 29
February: 5, 12, 19, 26
March: 5, 12
April: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
May: 7, 14, 21, 28
June: 4, 11, 18
but check back for possible changes.
You are welcome to come to a rehearsal and see if this is the band for you. Once you have decided to join us, you can click here to register: GVCB REGISTRATION FORM 2024-2025
*Instruments are those played in concert bands – woodwinds, brass and percussion. If you don’t have an instrument, we might be able to help you find a rental, or you can check out Long and McQuade or on-line.
