FALL RIVER: A group of students at Georges P. Vanier Junior High in Fall River are working hard to fine tune their music, and are looking at letting the community hear their talents.
The Treblemakers as they’re called would like to put on shows within the Fall River and area community at any local venues on the weekends if possible. One upcoming gig is April 7 at the Turtleback Tap & Grill from 2-4 p.m. Donations are being accepted at the event so the band can get a new drum kit.
Students who makeup the band include: Hope Campanis; Anna MacDonald; Kaitlyn McQuillan; Emma McCara; Oliver Webber; Isaac Lovett; Nash Pick; Mia Goedkoop; Keegan O’Halloran; Ben Lush; Eduardo Labbe; Samuel McInnis; and Keegan Lane.
Jennifer Bnaks, the Guidance Counsellor at GPV, is the band instructor. She said often in her career she’s had students that could only be reached through their own language.
“Music is often that language. There are so many benefits to playing music,” said Banks. “I have seen so many kids flourish in this kind of environment and, as a result, their confidence is built up.
“As well, as a Guidance Counsellor, I don’t get to play music as much as I would like to so this is a way for me to live vicariously through the kids. And who doesn’t want to play Pink Floyd at lunchtime?”
What’s her hope for The Treblemakers?
“My hope is that the students will remember this year, will continue to play for years to come, and will continue to flourish,” she said. “I was in a band for many years. I learned about myself, not only as a musician, but as a person, including what I was capable of and what hard work and dedication looked like.
“It taught me a lot of wonderful lessons.”
Banks said the band surprised her.
“The amount of talent blew me away,” said Banks. “They have been dedicated and have learned how to be respectful towards one another.”
The students say the band makes them shows that they all can share a love for music and to share a talent.
“To be in a band means to have a safe place to be yourself and to talk to each other,” said Hope.
Mia said it’s fun to hang out with your friends.
“Music runs in the family and it is fun,” added Keegan.
