John Barsby band program lands note-worthy donation

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Sandy Rankin said she’s thrilled to see her late husband’s gift of music reborn again. (Image Credit: ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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John Barsby band program lands note-worthy donation

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Rankin said music shop Long and McQuade put her in contact with John Barsby school to put the donation plans in motion following her husband’s unexpected death this past April.

He was a former naval cadet in the 1950’s who played the drums.

Upon moving to Nanaimo about 20 years ago, the collection exploded, she said.

“Once we moved here he started buying more and more equipment. Every room had to have music, he loved his music.”

Russ Derr, John Barsby music instructor, said they’re “very lucky” to receive such a generous donation to give their grades 9-12 band classes a jolt.

A trio of new drum sets now outfit John Barsby Secondary School’s music room. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Three drum sets and four bass guitars headline the set.

Student skill levels and motivation levels have already increased Der said, noting the equipment has only been in use for about two weeks.

“It’s important when you’re a performing band to play on good equipment, Der said. “We were kind of just getting by with some donations and whatnot, but not nearly the quality of what we have now.”

Der said nothing compares to the size of this donation to benefit their band program before, stating the set is valued at around $20,000.

He said basic music equipment is fine, but said higher quality offerings are what really allows musicians to refine their craft.

Russ Derr said their upgraded band equipment is highly appreciated by his students. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

The four bass guitars are especially popular, which he said are in “mint” condition.

“I know all of the students are fighting over which one they want to play each day because they have all sorts of different characteristics that they really enjoy and helps their playing.”

Valued at roughly $20,000, Der said the equipment, which also includes a range of accessories, is a game-changer for their program.

“We are just so honoured and happy this has happened.”

Dakota Nguyn is a grade nine John Barsby music student.

He said the guitars produce a bright, wonderful tones.

“It’s a great improvement on the stuff that we’ve been using. We’re just really thankful for all the great quality that we get to have fun with and practice.”

Twelfth-grade John Barsby band student Alicia Holmes-John said their school struggles to get high-end equipment.

“It means a lot to us as….we don’t really get a lot of funding unless it’s a PAC (Parent Advisory Council)…It just makes a huge improvement in confidence levels, we just enjoy being here now.”

Four new bass guitars are in hot demand at John Barsby’s band room. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

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