These pages represent a research project into the history of brass bands in the Province of British Columbia. This site continues to develop as information is uncovered concerning this unique musical phenomenon.

Brass Bands in the Province of British Columbia were a common form of musical expression in the colonial to pre-World War 1 years. In general, the bands were comprised of two groups: those developed by the European colonists, which were primarily community bands, and those developed amongst the First Nations peoples, often in association with a religious organization.

To view these two parallel histories please click on the following links:

This is a research project that continues to develop as new photographs and information are discovered. Anyone with information, corrections, additions, or photos concerning brass bands in British Columbia is invited to contact Brian Stride at bstride@shaw.ca

Bailey Brothers, City of Vancouver Archives, Out P428
Sechelt First Nations Brass Band at the blessing ceremony of a new seminary, ca. 1890

Author: Brian Stride (2006)