Band students from Champion School took part in a band retreat at the University of Lethbridge Friday, Sept. 19. Grade 7 students received small group instruction on their particular instruments from U of L staff and students. Grade 8 and 9 students participated in a taiko drum workshop led by Adam Mason, who teaches percussion and founded the U of L taiko ensemble. Taiko drums originate in Japan.
Teacher Amanda Rodgers says the students were treated to a faculty concert in the university’s new recital hall. After the students had a chance to swim in the U of L pool, all the students came together for a full band rehearsal conducted and led by instructor Chee Meng Low.
Champion School serves about 100 students from Grades 1 through 9 in the Village of Champion. There are 18 students in the junior high band program.