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ABOUT THE BAND
Marcato Youth Concert Band is made up of a talented group of creative young musicians in grades 5 and above. Since it's inception, the members of Marcato have won over the hearts of music lovers from all walks of life. They have seasonal concerts all over Metro Vancouver in multiple different private venues and public spaces. They mainly perform in the at the end of the fall term before winter break (Late November -> December) as well as at the end of the spring term (May -> July). Marcato also has performed with other music groups in the community many times.
The song selection varies from term to term, ensuring the band is learning new skills and growing their talents.
ABOUT THE CONDUCTOR
Brenda Khoo
Founder and Music Director
Brenda is the conductor and founder of the band.
She has an extensive music background and has led the band since forming it in 2014.
Her exposure to music began at the age of 12 when she took up a flute which her parents had purchased for her in Grade 7. After struggling initially, she stuck with it and came into her own as a skilled player. In Grade 9, she developed tendinitis and had to switch instruments. She chose the tenor saxophone, the instrument that 'called' to her and played it throughout high school, along with the flute, baritone saxophone, piccolo and bells.
Although her original goal was to major in saxophone in university, her unsuccessful application turned out to be a blessing in disguise as she entered the Faculty of Education instead. She played bass clarinet in the symphony while obtaining her B.Ed in Instrumental Music and English.
Brenda has been teaching concert bands since 1994 at the beginner and intermediate level. She believes that music connects people and enhances their lives and that it is never too late to learn to play an instrument. It is her passion to share music through teaching and performing to all those who are willing.
Brenda is the band teacher at J.N. Burnett Secondary School in Richmond, British Columbia; currently plays French horn for the Delta Music Makers band; teaches and conducts the three community concert bands she founded: Marcato Youth Concert Band (in Richmond), Brass, Wind and Wire (currently running at the beginner level through Delta Continuing Education with practices on Wednesday nights in Ladner), and the Amazing Beginner Concert Band (Hiatus).
Her motto? "It is never too late to toot your own horn".
Note from the writer:
Website is updated as often as possible. That being said, we know we can fall behind on the dates of concerts and other important things. For the most up to date information, please email us.