Jerry Wennes was the co-founder and the first Musical Director of the St. Albert Community Band in the year 1970. For 42 years he maintained contact with the Band, having attended many of the Band’s “anniversaries”, from his home in Vancouver. He was always asking of the Band’s “fortunes” and despite his battle with cancer, was always insistent he would once again join the Band in concert at a future performance. The Band was saddened by the passing of Jerry on January 6, 2013.

The Board of the St. Albert Community Band believes it is important to recognize Jerry, who obviously exemplifies the Band’s motto of “Music is for Life”, with a special award which will be presented each year at the Spring Concert in St. Albert.

Criteria

• Must be a fulltime member of either the Concert Band or the Big Band (or both)
• Must maintain regular attendance
• Has made several “contributions” to the Band, contributions beyond the actual “performing” expectation
• Often “initiates” the service to the Band rather than always being “asked” to perform a service
• Provides “consistent” service to the Band
• Exemplifies the expression of “Going beyond the call of duty”
• Has no expectation for reward or recognition for his/her service
• Is a “team player” in every sense of the word
• Is “passionate” about his/her playing and in simply being a “good member” of the Band
• Helps exemplify the Band’s motto of “Music is for Life”
• Exemplifies dedication to the Band, its programs, performances and goals
• Treats other members of the Band with respect, caring and compassion

Past Recipients

Rodger Weir, Concert & Big Band – 2011/2012

Michael McElroy, Concert Band – 2012/2013

Joan Woodlock, Concert Band & Jeremy Moorhouse, Big Band – 2013/2014

David Otto, Concert Band – 2014/2015

Derek Chaston, Concert Band – 2015/2016

Murray Cowden, Concert Band – 2016/2017

Yoko Ruigrok, Concert Band – 2017/2018