Banner Image
Image
Image
Overview
The Royal and Ottawa Bluesfest are thrilled to be bringing back the Be in the Band program for 2024!
Be in the Band connects aspiring young musicians to other band-mates and a musical mentor. They meet for weekly sessions from April through July to develop and rehearse a set list that includes original songs. As a grand finale, there will be special performances both at The Royal and at Ottawa Bluesfest in July! This program is supported by Ottawa Bluesfest, and there is no cost to participate.
A safe place to build confidence and make friends, Be in the Band provides a creative outlet for youth (ages 14-18) who have been affected by mental health challenges, whether directly or through a loved one. Often times, teenagers have a hard time expressing themselves, especially if they're experiencing anxiety, depression or any other mental health challenges. Be in the Band offers a warm environment for youth to express themselves freely, and gives them an opportunity they may not have otherwise.
You're eligible if
- You're between the ages of 14-18.
- You have had at least one year of musical training/lessons.
- You are able to commit to one hour of rehearsals every Saturday morning between April-July.
- You are able to commit to performing at Ottawa Bluesfest on July 14, 2024.
- You have been impacted by mental health challenges in some way, whether directly or through a loved one.
Date and Time
Meet & Greet
Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 12 pm.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals run every Saturday between April-July
Performances
There will be two performances in July - one at The Royal and the other at Ottawa Bluesfest.
Location
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre’s Auditorium – 1145 Carling Avenue
Registration
Sign up now to attend our Be in the Band Meet & Greet!
How does Be in the Band work?
Hosted by Ottawa Bluesfest, the Be in the Band program runs across Ottawa through high schools, community centres, and The Royal.
The first step to joining Be in the Band through The Royal is signing up to attend our Meet & Greet on April 27. At the Meet & Greet, you’ll meet our music coach Kurt Walther, as well as all of the other young musicians who have signed up. After a discussion about skill level and musical interest, all participants will be sorted into bands based on best fit.
Once divided into bands, you will return to The Royal for rehearsals every Saturday between April-July. This is when you’ll write and compose originals! After 10 weeks of practice with your new band, you will give two performances in July – one at The Royal for the community, and one on stage at Ottawa Bluesfest!
For information
For more information, contact Michaela Berniquez at Michaela.berniquez@theroyal.ca.
Image
