Kindersley and Eatonia students perform with SMEA Honours Band
By Joan Janzen
Kindersley and Eatonia were well represented at the 2025 Saskatchewan Music Educators Association (SMEA) Honours Band, held in Regina from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1.
Five local band students earned the privilege of joining the provincial ensemble. Representing Kindersley were Kaitlyn Herner on alto saxophone, Moira Padberg on percussion, and Serenity Malcolm on tuba. From Eatonia, Angela Bosch performed on B-flat clarinet with the Senior Honour Band, while Dominique Bosch played alto saxophone with the Junior Honour Band.
Dr. Vanessa Klassen, Dominique Bosch, Angela Bosch, Serenity Malcolm, Moira Padberg, Kaitlyn Herner, and Kindersley Composite School band teacher Michael Reese. SUBMITTED
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Angela Bosch said the experience was especially meaningful because she could share it with fellow musicians from Kindersley. “I enjoyed meeting our conductor, Dr. Shelley Axelson from Virginia, USA,” she said. Bosch’s favourite piece to perform was Jitterbug, which reminded her of her first clarinet teacher, Steve Mealey.
The SMEA Honour Groups Program is open to Saskatchewan students in Grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate musical proficiency at a high school level or higher. Honour Band members auditioned in April, while Junior Honour Band participants were recommended by their music teachers.
All five students study privately with Dr. Vanessa Klassen. Michael Reese teaches the Kindersley students through the KCS band program.
“I’d like to thank all the music teachers, especially Vanessa Klassen, who helped me prepare for this experience,” said Bosch.
Over three days, the young musicians joined a larger ensemble, rehearsed under professional conductors and clinicians, and concluded the event with a vibrant public concert.
“It was a privilege to represent Eatonia and to play in a band of 61 members,” said Dominique Bosch. “The sound was so grand compared to the small ensembles I’ve played in before. I enjoyed meeting our conductor, sectional instructor, and musicians my age from across Saskatchewan.”