Band Syllabus

Which syllabus do I use?

Every year our teachers go through the understandable confusion of not knowing which syllabus to consult when selecting repertoire for the Golden Horseshoe Music Festival. 

Concert Band:

With the growing number of titles on both the Musicfest Canada (The Nationals) list and the Ontario Band Association (OBA) list, it can only get more confusing. Participants are welcome to select repertoire from either list and are encouraged to consult both syllabi. 

Please note:

    • If you have plans to take your ensemble(s) to the National festival, MusicFest Canada requires one Canadian piece in your programme. 
    • If you choose your list piece from the OBA Festival syllabus, WE WILL PROVIDE ADJUDICATION SCORES FOR THAT PIECE(S)
  • If you choose your list piece from the MusicFest/Nationals syllabius, PLEASE PURCHASE AND PROVIDE TWO (2) ADDITIONAL CONDUCTOR SCORES FOR ADJUDICATION

As every group’s total stage time is less than 25 minutes, we recommend that you programme no more than 15 minutes of music (we realize in a few cases of the higher level ensembles you may be closer to 20). Please choose repertoire to fit within this general guideline.

We recommend that you perform contrasting material (ie, be sure to include some lyrical/slow & expressive repertoire).

In 2023 we are returning to classical and educational compositions for the Concert groups (Bands, Orchestras, and Chamber Ensembles) to align with the standards and requirements of our two partner festivals (OBA and MusicFest/Nationals).

At any point during your programming process, if you have questions about the materials or if you are in need of recommendations, please contact Shashi at ghmf@onband.ca for assistance!

Click on the icons below to review the most up-to-date *CONCERT BAND* syllabi from the Ontario Band Association and MusicFest Canada-The Nationals.

Jazz Ensemble and Combo:

Jazz Groups are encouraged to play pieces in 3 contrasting styles. There is no set syllabus list.

String and Symphony Orchestra:

Orchestra Groups are encouraged to play 2-3 pieces in 2-3 contrasting styles, depending on total performance/music time. There is no set syllabus list.

Instrumental Chamber Ensemble: Chamber groups are encouraged to play 2-3 pieces in 2-3 contrasting styles. There is no set syllabus list. The OBA also hosts a small ensemble festival, and the suggested resource list can be found at the bottom of this page: CLICK HERE

Click on the icons below to review the most up-to-date sylllabi from MusicFest Canada and the OBA.