Resa's Pieces Concert Band

Mike Stone

My name is Mike Stone and I joined the band in January 2010. I play alto sax. I also play flute in the Etobicoke Community Concert Band. Resa was a substitute conductor at one of our practices in December 2009. She said she could use some saxophone players in Resa's Pieces, so I stepped up to the plate. I've been playing flute in the Etobicoke band for about 10 years. I purchased an alto sax about 5 years ago, but I get little time or opportunity to play it. I thought that by joining Resa's Pieces I would have a chance to try the sax and get better at playing it. I am a therapist by profession, working with adults who were abused as children, with families where parents are separated and with people with a wide variety of psycho-social problems. Music is my way of nurturing myself and restoring equilibrium in my own life.

Gary Stewart

I have been playing the tenor saxophone ever since I was in grade seven, twenty years later and I’m still playing.  As a teacher, I am still involved in music.  I teach grade five level music and I am also part of the intermediate jazz band at my school.  I also play the bass guitar, but at a very primary level.  If anyone knows of a great bass guitar instructor, or is selling a bass guitar, please let me know. 

It was another teacher colleague of mine who introduced me to Resa’s Pieces in 2003.  I was immediately drawn to the energy, friendliness, and enthusiasm for music that this wonderful group of people all shared together.  We played so many wonderful, diverse pieces of music, and the best part is that we had a lot of fun. Unfortunately things in my life changed and I left the band after two years.   

This year I felt the calling again.  After being away for four years, I was amazed by how much this band has grown professionally and in numbers.  I am feeling that same energy, friendliness, and enthusiasm I felt years ago and I am glad to be back where I belong.  I am having a great time and I am learning a lot from Resa.  She is an amazing, patient, and dedicated person and conductor.  I know I’m going to have a wonderful year.  If you still have that love for music and want to join a band, check out Resa’s Pieces.  You won’t be disappointed.