photo credits: Rebecca Blidner
Resa’s Pieces Concert Band is an adult band formed in 2000 in Toronto to provide an opportunity for people to return to playing instruments they had not touched for years. Resa Kochberg started the very first rehearsal by reteaching the original 20 members the basics of music – the names of the lines and spaces and the values of notes. Most of the early members did not even remember how to hold their instruments properly and some had to be shown how to put them together! Six months after its founding, Resa’s Pieces played its first concert to an audience of 75 eager listeners, comprised mostly of family and friends. The band members proudly showed off their repertoire of eight notes in simple arrangements of very basic songs. At the conclusion of the brief performance, the room was filled with a tremendous sense of accomplishment by all.
Resa’s Pieces Concert Band celebrated its 10th Annual Gala Concert on June 2, 2009 with 36 musicians playing to a sold out audience of 450 guests. Resa's Pieces members come from diverse backgrounds, with ages spanning from the 20’s to almost 90 years young. Shortly after joining, new members often express “Wow, it really all does come back!” Thanks to Resa’s dream, all of her “Pieces” share in the amazing experience and joy of playing in a band ensemble once again. Rehearsals are held weekly where “do your best but also have fun” is what is expected.
On an annual basis, family and friends arrive at various concerts including the Gala concert bringing with them additional patrons who join Resa’s Pieces’ true and loyal fan club. Performances have become more sophisticated over time however; the band still strives to maintain a unique rapport with its patrons. Resa’s Pieces plays repertoire that is recognizable by all with selections that typically include well known Classics, Jewish melodies, band marches, Disney, pop and show tunes, movie themes and other oldies. Audience participation is a hallmark of the evening and concerts sell out every year. Each season ends with thunderous applause and a standing ovation.
Resa’s Pieces Concert Band takes pride in that it has evolved into a unique, community concert band. Members’ understanding of music as a language has grown considerably over the years. Resa’s Pieces success, strength and uniqueness are credited to the enthusiasm and commitment of its members and the devotion of its conductor and founder, Resa Kochberg.
Resa's Pieces Concert Band is a member of the Canadian Band Association - Ontario Chapter.
Charitable Registration Number 81550 3495 RR0001
Interested in joining or for more information please email membership@resaspieces.org
