If you have dreamed of playing in a concert or jazz band or singing in a choir then the Cochrane Music Society wants to hear from you. Whether you are looking to refresh your musical talent or branch out anew, you are encouraged to join the CMS.

For those who are not familiar with the Cochrane Music Society, it was formed back in 1999 with the first ensemble being the Band on the Bow concert band.

Member’s enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and practice led to the creation of Riverside Jazz a year later.

In 2007, due to increased community interest in a local choir, Choral Waves was started.

The Cochrane Music Society’s mission, according to their website is “To promote shared musical expression and cultural heritage by providing affordable, flexible, effective music education to adults in the community.

In 2020 the Cochrane Music Society managed to maneuver the choppy waters of the pandemic. Over the past two years by pivoting and adapting to the changing situation they were able to continue to do what they love to do, play and sing the music. 

Jane Kaczmer with the Cochrane Music Society says, “The last couple of summers now, we managed to have rehearsals in the summer, outdoors.”  Members were sent the music ahead of time and practiced on their own and then would attend the outdoor rehearsal, it was an unusual practice for a community organization, admits Kaczmer, but it worked. Along with practicing outside, the society enjoyed performing outdoors for audiences and Kaczmer says, "We are looking forward to performing concerts in the summer again, outdoors and looking forward to Cochrane Culture Days in September again."

The Cochrane Music Society is very happy to announce that all three ensembles are now able to rehearse indoors with some restrictions including masking. They have rented the Seniors on the Bow space as SLS Family Sports Centre where practices will be held starting next week. The CMS 2022 spring program is now taking registrations.

Rehearsals begin on Tuesday, February 15 with Band on the Bow running from 7-8:45 pm and Riverside Jazz from 9-10:30 pm.

Choral Waves practices on Thursdays from 7-8:45 pm.

There is a membership fee for adults 21 and older. However, this year, CMS is offering membership for young adults aged 18-20, and associate membership for high school students under 18 both for free. 

Kaczmer says they want to encourage young adults who play or played in high school. Perhaps life got in the way and they quit playing but if they would like to return to it, CMS would love to see their membership grow. 

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Cochrane Music Society all the information can be found on the Cochrane Music Society website.