A Short History:
The Carnival Band was founded in 1997 by community organizer and guiding light Dan Vie , who engaged Marcos X and Ross Barrett as musical co-directors in 1999. The band made their first international tour to England and Germany in 2003, releasing their first album (you're listening to it now!) in 2005.
Dan served as artistic and managing director of the band until the birth of his first child in 2006. Between 2006-2007, Devon 8 took on the duties of general manager and booking shows, including the return to England and Germany, and tours to France, the Basque Country, the eastern U.S., and China. In August, 2007, Marcos, Devon, and other core members Vicki Rae, Corinne and Vern departed from the group, off to new adventures.
Over the years, the much beloved group has made hundreds of appearances at B.C. festivals, community events, civic ceremonies, and dance parties. The band continues to evolve with a group of 20-30 members under the musical direction of Ross Barrett and Tim Sars, and as of early 2008 is under the management of the newly-created Open Air Orchestra Society.
Look for more action from The Carnival Band on Youtube and Flickr , and for a friendly reunion with our brother and sister Yankee bands at Seattle's HonkFest West on Easter weekend in March, 2008.
