DIDSBURY - The Didsbury High School band returned recently from its spring break trip to Quebec. The band visited a number of historical sites during the trip and played a number of performances as well.
Band teacher Kirk Wassmer said the trip went very well and everyone had a great time.
"It was fantastic," said Wassmer. "Our students are great ambassadors for our community. Musically everything went very well and all our tours were packed with information about our Canadian history. I think we all came back feeling more informed about our heritage and about our country in general."
Wassmer said performing in the prestigious Rhythms International Festival was one of the big highlights.
"It was absolutely memorable," he said. "The group was so professional and played so well. I also think touring around Old Quebec City was a highlight for many students. We received a superior rating for the performance. The president of the festival called me the next day and told me that the festival does not award that many superior ratings, so we are really proud of that accomplishment."
Wassmer said another highlight was working with conductor Jonathan Dagenais at McGill University in Montreal.
"The kids were so well prepared musically that when they went into the workshop with Dagenais he was able to work with them as he would work with his university ensemble. Although our concert at Holy Trinity Cathedral did not have a large audience, the people that were there were very appreciative. It was amazing to be playing in a church that goes back to 1800. The sound in there was incredible."
Wassmer said that the students and chaperones all enjoyed the culture and history of Quebec.
"As we were walking through Old Quebec City you could imagine that you were in any old European city," he said. "I believe Montreal is one of the most cultural cities in the country. The people everywhere were very friendly, language was not an issue, and the poutine was first class."
