Empowering Youth Through Ensemble Harmony
We are a concert band ensemble — a large group of woodwind, brass, and percussion instrumentalists creating musical and community synergy. This is where youth learn and grow together through music.
Join us for our 1st Season!
About Edmonton Youth Bands Music Society
Edmonton Youth Bands Music Society empowers young performers by building a supportive community where music meets mentorship. We offer a welcoming space for youth to develop their talents, grow in confidence, and form lasting connections through the power of ensemble-based education.
Our Mission & Values
Our mission is to foster personal growth and artistic excellence through high-quality ensemble experiences that inspire a lifelong love for music.
- Empowerment: Building confidence in every young musician.
- Teamwork: Learning the value of collaboration and mutual support.
- Growth: Encouraging resilience and personal development.
- Creativity: Expressing unique voices through collective harmony.
Key Objectives
- Ensemble Excellence: High-quality musical education focused on group performance.
- Character Building: Nurturing compassionate, responsible, and engaged youth.
- Inclusion: Providing a safe, inclusive environment for all young musicians.
- Community Impact: Connecting through local concerts and meaningful partnerships.
Our Programs
Empowering young musicians aged 11-18 through ensemble experiences that foster empathy, teamwork, and personal growth.
Percussion
Tuba
Flute
Euphonium
Oboe
Learn an instrument
Trombone
Clarinet
Trumpet
French Horn
Saxophone
Learning an instrument takes vulnerability, courage, and a whole lot of fun—especially when you do it together! Designed for total beginners, this ensemble introduces brass, woodwind, and percussion fundamentals in a safe, encouraging environment. Beyond learning posture, breathing, and notation, young musicians will connect with peers and experience the deep social and emotional benefits of making music as a team. No prior experience needed!
Beginner Band
Intermediate Band
Ready to take your playing to the next level? Designed for musicians who know the basics of reading music and playing their instrument, this ensemble focuses on sharpening technique, expanding musicality, and tackling exciting new repertoire. Beyond building confidence and skill, players will deepen connections with peers and experience the energy of making great music together!
Advanced Band
Ready for a musical challenge? Designed for experienced musicians with multiple years of concert band playing under their belt, this ensemble dives into Grade 3+ repertoire, advanced technique, and refined expression. Elevate your musicianship, push your limits, and collaborate with passionate peers to bring high-level music to life!
Our Leadership Team
Kendra Heslip
Kendra Heslip is an Edmonton-based music educator, conductor, and saxophonist dedicated to building high-energy, supportive environments where young musicians thrive. Her approach centers on character as much as technique—believing that fostering empathy, teamwork, and strong values naturally lays the foundation for great musicianship. For Kendra, music is ultimately a tool for connection—when students learn to support one another, exceptional music-making follows.
Kendra holds a Bachelor of Music in Saxophone Performance from the University of Alberta, a Master of Music from Bowling Green State University—where she served as a graduate teaching assistant—and a Bachelor of Education. An active soloist and chamber musician, she has competed in events such as the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition and performed across North America. Expanding her leadership on the podium, she has furthered her conducting studies through the Festival City Winds Conducting Apprenticeship, the Calgary Conducting Symposium, the Rusty Musicians Conductors Clinic, and various workshops.
Today, Kendra performs locally with the Edmonton Saxophone Quartet and maintains a dynamic career as a public school band director, clinician, and ensemble leader. Her background includes directing the Edmonton Sabres Marching Band and the ECSD Jr. All-City Band, and she is thrilled to bring her energy and love for music-making to the Edmonton Youth Band.
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