The Kirkland Concert Band, a volunteer, amateur musical organization, was formed in 1984 by a small group of musicians seeking an outlet for their abilities. Under the musical direction of Patrick Downs, the KCB has since increased in size to approximately 35 dedicated members. 2009 will mark our 25th anniversary.
The Kirkland Concert Band serves residents of the City of Kirkland by performing in a summer concert series, as well as at various municipal events. The KCB also performs throughout Montreal and neighbouring West Island communities.
Of special note is the band's participation in both the Royal Trust's Campbell Concert Series and the City of Montreal's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in which the band proudly represents the City of Kirkland.
The Kirkland Concert Band is continually seeking new members. The KCB's only requirement is enthusiasm, so if you or anyone you know would like to become involved with our group please contact us for more information.
KCB in the News
The West Island Gazette, April 2009
The West Island Chronicle, June 2006
The West Island Suburban, June 1999
The Montreal Gazette, July 1995
The Montreal Gazette, December 1994
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History of the
Kirkland Concert Band
How the band came to be:
Once upon a time in the 1970’s, there was a concert band “course” which was offered by the adult education department at Rosemere High School in Rosemere, Quebec just north of the island of Montreal. The conductor of this group was Alex Thomson.
Around 1983 or so, band members voted to leave the school board and form an independent organization, known as the Northshore Concert Band, under the direction of their former conductor Alex Thomson, and continued to rehearse at Rosemere High. There are still some pieces of music in the KCB library with the NCB name stamped on them.
In 1984, professional trombone player and music educator Patrick Downs agreed to play with NCB at the request of friend and NCB band member Geoffrey Chisolm. That same year, a major change happened - a growing number of band members were living on the West Island in Montreal and wanted to rehearse closer to home. Band member Steve Jonas approached the city of Kirkland and was able to strike up a sponsorship deal. As a result, the band moved to Kirkland, became the KCB, and hired Patrick Downs to be their new conductor.
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