April 21, 2023 4:09pm
The Huron Honour Band is returning for a second year, bringing music to the community and allowing students to learn and grow.
The band started in 2022 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Not many students had an opportunity to play an instrument and that obviously had a social effect on students,” said Aaron Neeb, director of the Huron Honour Band.
Alongside a group of students at Central Huron Secondary School, where Neeb teaches, they decided that running the band in the summer was a great opportunity for those who missed making music.
“We thought, oh why don’t we open it up to other music teachers and schools in the area and see if there were any students that wanted to take part as well?” he said.
Now, the group is comprised of students ranging from 12-18 years old. All skill levels are welcome, as it is an opportunity to learn alongside peers. Neeb has also put together a jazz band for this year.
“If you’re a beginner, we’re going to do some beginner music, as well as some more challenging music so that we’re providing an opportunity to challenge everybody at various skill levels,” he said.
Neeb says the Huron Honour Band now tours around Huron County, while trying to make an impact on the community. That’s something that’s very meaningful to him as the director.
“Last summer we raised over $600 at a concert for the Connection Centre, which provides meals and showers to those who are less fortunate in the community of South Huron. We’re trying to give back and provide a service to the community,” he said.
The band is looking to schedule events for this summer, playing in even more areas than they did last year. Anyone who wants to join can do so by contacting Neeb, at huronhonourband@gmail.com or at aaron.neeb@ed.amdsb.ca. It is free of cost and anyone who doesn’t have an instrument can borrow one from the band.
“This is low stakes, no risk, and there are lots of opportunities to meet new people and do something new,” he said. “Everyone is welcome regardless of their background or skill level.”
