Fortissimo Victoria 2025 “A Military Music Spectacle”

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The VMMFS is again supporting local activities over the upcoming Victoria Day long weekend. In recognition of recent VE Day celebrations, VMMFS will present two performances of Fortissimo Victoria 2025:

  • British Columbia Legislature 6 pm Saturday, May 17, 2025 
  • Victoria Highland Games Topaz Park 4:00 pm, Sunday May 18, 2025 (Abbreviated Performance for those attending the Highland Games)

Fortissimo is a celebration of military music and movement blending a large ensemble of military and civilian performers. While the full cast of guest performers has yet to be confirmed, musicians from the Canadian Armed Forces, brass-reed musicians and pipers and drummers, are the core element our event.

Follow link for a preview of the May 17 performance program:  http://www.victoriamilitarymusic.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Fortissimo-2025-Program-May-7-PM.pdf  

Photo: Bands of the 1st Battalion Royals Scots and Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) performing on the BC Legislature lawn in 1966

Thank You Victoria

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We thank all those who braved the rain to enjoy the sights and sounds of music, tradition and history provided by The Bay Street Music Project at the Bay Street Armoury, Saturday, October 19th. It was for music lovers and musicians young and old an opportunity to engage with a variety of musicians, music organizations, and suppliers.

There were information booths and activities for youth. Participants included: The Victoria Conservatory of Music; The Royal Canadian College of Organists; and Music for Veterans Project along with music retailers. There were performances by the musicians from the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Band of the 5th (BC) Field Regiment Royal Canadian Artillery, The Canadian Scottish Pipes and Drums, the Chief and Petty Officers Band, renowned organist Steve Benson, and more. Click here to view photos of the event.

An added feature of the event, Veterans Affairs Canada hosted an Open Mic “An Evening of Stories and Song”. The intention of the Open Mic was to provide Veterans with a casual alternative to the traditional commemorative ceremony and to recognize the important role music plays in the healing process and in bringing people together.