The KCS Band program’s secret to success

By Joan Janzen
joanjanzen@yahoo.com

The band program at Kindersley Composite School has had a lot of support throughout its existence. Colleen Swan said she stepped into the band program thirty-two years ago and inherited a strong program built by Gene Aulinger and Steve Mealey. She admitted it was not easy following in the footsteps of two amazing teachers like Gene and Steve, but she valued their mentorship. Because of their guidance, she eventually came to feel she was a part of the legacy.

Besides Gene and Steve, the band program has consistently enjoyed the support of a community that completely embraced the program. Local businesses sponsored various activities, and the community was hugely supportive of band fundraisers. Every year they lined the streets to cheer on the band during many parades. Bands throughout the years were invited to perform at many community events, and the encouraging comments they received were a pillar of strength for both the program and the band instructors.

The Sun West School Division, including the late Elda Clark, made their support of the band program evident throughout the years, placing value on music education at KCS. Colleen said she has worked with numerous administrators during her career, and their support of the program and herself was a huge key to the success of the band program.

“I truly lucked out with staff that has always been a cheerleader of our band program,” Colleen said. “The accommodations the staff has made throughout the years has truly been instrumental to the program’s success.”

The Band Parent Association at KCS works like a well-oiled machine, thanks to the contribution of many dedicated parents and volunteers. “Many of my fellow colleges are so jealous of the working relationship and support that I have,” Colleen boasted.

And finally, the students are the heart of the program. Throughout the years, thousands of students have passed through Colleen’s classroom door, and the classrooms of her predecessors and each one of them has made a considerable impact. Without their commitment and dedication, the program would not succeed.