Chapter 6 Community Culture

BANDS

The O’Leary Region Lions Band was originally formed in 1966, under the direction of W.E. Raymond Locke. At that time much of the work leading to the development of the band was volunteered. Such things as uniforms were made by hand, by many interested ladies. The making of the uniforms was supervised by Helen Smallman, Yvonne Baglole, and Laura Rayner. The band continued under the direction of Mr. Locke until the fall of 1969. At that time, Thomas Hamilton-Irving was hired as the new band master. He remained with the band for a short period of time and when he left the band dispersed.

Fortunately, in 1971, the need was seen to start the band again. Under an Opportunities for Youth Program, the services of David MacDonald and Frank McKearney were obtained. At that time they were enrolled in the music program at U.P.E.I. During the summer of 1971, they worked 30 to 35 hours a week, training approximately thirty-five students. The operations of the band were very successful. David MacDonald and Frank McKearney remained with the band for the next three years and continued to operate from the Lions Club.

In 1973, the band had a very successful summer. They helped many Island communities celebrate P.E.I.'s 100th birthday since Confederation.

In 1974, David MacDonald graduated from U.P.E.I. and was hired by Unit One School Board to teach music at the O'Leary Regional High School. When this happened, the Lions Club sold their instru- ments and equipment to the school. The bands since then have operated through the school system.

In the summer of 1980, students were concerned that once they finished school, they would also end their involvement with the bands. A group of students asked Mr. MacDonald if he would be will- ing to direct a summer band. He agreed to help and they asked legions in West Prince to sponsor them. The legions were very will- ing to help. The O'Leary Legion purchased forty-five uniforms that summer for the West Prince Marching Band. This band has played in most of the major parades across the Island, including the Gold Cup & Saucer Parade, and the Lobster Carnival Parade. In 1981, the band won first prize in the division of Junior Brass and Reed in the Gold

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