Junior Concert Band (Grade 8/9)

The Junior Concert Band is conducted by Sandra Gunn (sgunn@prn.bc.ca) at Dr. Kearney Middle School and Sabrina Brooks (sbrooks@prn.bc.ca) at Bert Bowes Middle School.

In day band, we’re not just playing music – we’re mastering it. We’ll dive into:
~Advanced techniques that make your instrument sing.
~Perfecting tone, pitch control, and ensemble harmony.
~Crushing new rhythms, conducting patterns, and sight-reading.

Band is more than a class – it’s a family. You’ll build teamwork, musicianship, and confidence, all while leveling up your skills like never before. Think of it as your backstage pass to becoming a musical legend!

To join the Travel Band adventure, commit to Wednesday evening rehearsals (6:45–8:30 PM, September-May). These students will perform at epic concerts, go on a recruitment tour to inspire future band stars, and take part in other unforgettable events.

Being in band doesn’t just make you better at music – it makes you better at everything. Studies show band students kill it in other classes and are total MVPs when it comes to success in life:

Time-Management Boss – Learn to juggle practices, performances, and everything else like a pro.
Perseverance Power-Up – Master tricky pieces, push through challenges, and come out stronger.
Prioritization Pro – Balance band with school, friends, and fun – all while leveling up your focus.

So, why not join the crew, grow your skills, and make unforgettable memories while setting yourself up for a future of wins? Band’s got your back – and your beat!

To join, you need to have completed Band 7/8 (or equivalent), and new students to Fort St. John can connect with our band teacher before registration.

Dr. Kearney musicians at Christmas
Dr. Kearney musicians at Christmas

Every Wednesday night at 7pm, they rehearse from 6:45-8:30pm in the Bert Bowes Band Room and are conducted by Sandra Gunn.

Dr. Kearney musicians at Remembrance Day
Dr. Kearney musicians at Remembrance Day

Students can sign up for Junior Concert Band (Grade 8/9) by contacting their Middle Schools and completing course selection.

Middle School band offers students new instruments and many exciting travel opportunities, including national competitions.

The Grade 8/9 Band also collaborates with the Senior Band and Community Band for fun and mentorship. Here is all students Grade 8-12 and the Northern Winds Community Band playing Guardians of the Galaxy, conducted by Joe Brooks: