Folk Band

Weekly Community Music Classes | Ages 6+ | All Skill Levels Welcome

Folk Band is a vibrant, multi-generational community music program that welcomes players of all skill levels and ages—from 6 to 80+—into a supportive, ensemble-based learning environment. With a focus on fiddle and folk traditions, the program invites musicians to explore harmonized group playing, build musical confidence, and experience the joy of collaborative performance.

Led by professional music educators, Folk Band meets weekly from September to June, culminating in a year-end performance at the Port Theatre, along with additional concerts and community appearances throughout the season.

What to Expect

• Weekly Ensemble Classes: 75-minute sessions designed to develop ensemble skills, musicality, and confidence in a relaxed, inclusive setting (in Nanaimo).
• Diverse Instruments Welcome: Instruction and arrangements are tailored to accommodate a wide range of string and folk instruments, including fiddle, viola, cello, guitar, mandolin, ukulele, flute, penny whistle, and accordion.
• Inclusive Learning Materials: An ability to read music is not required. Participants receive custom-written arrangements written for their skill level with sheet music, chord charts, audio recordings, and video tutorials—perfect for visual, auditory, and neurodiverse learners.
• Folk Band is a required stepping stone for any youth who hope to eventually join Fiddelium. Participants should have a basic comfort level with their instrument—for example, knowing how to hold the bow correctly and being able to play a simple tune or two.
• Community Performances: Highlights include open house events, performances at seniors’ residences, and a collaborative final concert that brings the whole ensemble to the stage.

An Inclusive, Intergenerational Community

Folk Band is known for its welcoming and inclusive culture, bringing together seniors, families, youth, new Canadians, and individuals with diverse abilities. It provides a rare space in Nanaimo where families and individuals can learn, rehearse, and perform together, building friendships and connections through music.

Accessibility & Support

The program is committed to removing barriers:

• Low registration fees
• Bursaries available for those in financial need
• Accessible rehearsal venues
• Flexible learning options for neurodiverse and beginner players

A Legacy of Music

Founded in 2005 by Trish and Geoff Horrocks, Folk Band became a core offering of the Nanaimo Fiddle Society in 2021. Now in its 20th year, it has grown into one of the region’s most beloved and impactful community music programs—celebrating the power of music to connect, uplift, and inspire.

Whether you’re picking up your instrument for the first time or returning to it after many years, Folk band offers an enriching, welcoming space to learn, grow, and make music together.

Term Fees

Note: 

• There are two terms: 1) September to January 2) February to June 
• To join, you must have a current membership (purchased separately) Visit (insert link) to become a member

Questions: Email our instructors at nanaimofolkband@gmail.com

Interested in joining? Registration opens each summer!