RCMP Bands



The RCMP Band was formed at Regina in the latter part of 1938. For a number of years, although it was an "official" band, the members were employed on regular duties and their work as musicians was secondary. The instruments were purchased as the result of contributions from members of the RCMP.

The band was transferred to Ottawa in mid-1939 but during the war years, the number of performances was reduced considerably. However, the band supported the war effort and participated in Victory Loan parades which were often highlighted by Hollywood movie stars such as Greer Garson, Walter Pigeon and Spencer Tracy. The band also played at dances for the benefit of service personnel.

It was obvious that members of the RCMP Band were very dedicated, for their band-related duties took place outside of normal work hours. In the spring of 1949, a second band was formed at Regina and available evidence suggested that, by the mid-1950's, band members were employed full time on band duties.

In 1958, the Ottawa and Regina bands merged into one full time unit stationed in Ottawa at which time it truly became the Regimental Band of the RCMP.

Although an unofficial band, comprised of RCMP Cadets, may still be found at the RCMP training Centre at "Depot" Division, Regina, the Ottawa-based, Regimental Band of the RCMP was the victim of government funding cuts and ceased to exist effective March 31, 1994.


Regimental details | Band


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by Stephen Luscombe