Do you like to make new friends?
Do you love excitement?
Do you take pride in your accomplishments?
Do you enjoy being appreciated for a job well done?
Well, if you’ve answered a resounding “YES” to all the questions above, we want to hear from you. You’re definitely the calibre of person that we are looking for to join our award-winning organization. We are currently recruiting new members for an opportunity that will last a lifetime. This opportunity will not only excite you, it will THRILL you. In fact, it will FILL you with such a sense of pride and accomplishment that it will make your heart race. It WILL leave you standing nearly breathless as you receive applause from thousands of people.
We are The Toronto Signals Band (or “Sigs” as we are affectionately known) and we want you to join us. We have been performing for audiences throughout Canada and the United States since 1926.
The Toronto Signals Band is one of the oldest continuous operating Bands in Canada, and we are crowd favourite at Parades, Concerts, Tattoo’s and Drum Corp Shows. Readily recognized by our scarlet and black uniforms, we have maintained the reputation as a precision marching unit and a superb playing group. We have distinctively earned the title of “Canada’s Marching Ambassadors” and have won over 400 awards since our inception.
We are a unique organization comprised of men and women dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of this well known Canadian Military Band. Since the integration of the Canadian Armed Forces in the early 1970’s, we have carried on as a volunteer organization, and for years we have brought dignity, honour and wide acclaim to the 709th Communications Regiment and the City of Toronto. Each of us extremely proud of what we stand for.
For many of our members, Sigs is also a family affair. We have fathers and mothers with sons or daughters, wives, husbands, brothers and sisters all proudly marching together. Some are third generation members. Through the years, many lifelong friendships have been established. Some even met their sweethearts.
Here is what some of our members have to say:
“I have been a member of the Sigs for 11 years now and I have to say, I’m going to be in it for the rest of my life. I could not imagine being without them. I have had so many good experiences performing for this band and I find I just can’t wait until show time.”
- Al Hester (2nd Soprano)
“I’ve been a member for 5 years now. I met someone from this band and he asked me to come and check out a practice. I did have a bit of experience, but I hadn’t played in over 25 years. That first night, “the bug bit me”. Now, I can’t get enough. What a great organization. I’m really looking forward to this season.”
- Jim Kennedy (1st Soprano)
“I enjoy a lot of different types of music. Rock, jazz, pop, etc. I was in a number of different types of bands throughout high school and university. Although I’m not a professional musician today, the Signals have given me an outlet for my music. I love the precision and choreography, which make up our drill. I get pumped with excitement just before our performances and I always look forward to interacting with all the members. “
- Ken Lumb (Snare drum)
“I joined this organization seven years ago with no prior marching experience. Now, as a member of the colour guard for the Toronto Signals, I get to march out in front of the band on parade. Carrying the band colours fills me with pride and just putting on my Sigs uniform makes me feel very honoured. Watching the happy faces of people while we’re performing and listening to their applause gives me a wonderful feeling that stays with me a long time. I look forward to all our functions. It’s a great experience!”
- Maude McHaffie (Colour Guard)
“I live in Hamilton and the 40 min. drive to practice is not bad at all. I have acquired a new family with the Sigs Band. I feel very welcomed by everyone. I have a lot of fun and laughs with everyone and look forward to Monday practices. Bus trips are fun as well and the camaraderie and travel to various places make me feel warm inside. I am very pleased and proud to be a part of a wonderful organization like The Toronto Signals band AND YOU WILL BE AS WELL.”
- Dennis Guzzo (Baritone)
“I am very proud to be part of the Sigs for many reasons. One reason is their affiliation with the 709 Communication Regiment and our supporting their various activities. Being in the Sigs allows me to thank the men and women of the 709 for their commitment and thank Canada in my own very little way for the wonderful country we have.
Another reason is the people in the Sigs. They are wonderful!!! The men and women of the Sigs provide me with a sense of belonging that I do not find anywhere else and I try to offer the best of me to help the Sigs become a better unit.”
- Jim Siminoski (Mellophone)
“I have been a member of the Toronto Signals Band since 1984 and sincerely hope to still be an active playing member when we celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2026.
I clearly remember my first performance with the band. My parents attended with my wife who was 9 months pregnant with our first child. Jennifer was born a few days later and grew-up dreaming of the day when she could join the band. She is now a senior member. Being a member of the Band provides much more than satisfying a passion for music and performance, it is also full of friendships and camaraderie with people from all walks of life. It is also special for me to have an activity that I share with my daughter.”
- Ted Blight (Baritone)
“I have had a great passion for the Toronto Signals ever since I was 17 years old. I admire the history and tradition of the band. I later joined the band at age 28. I am now a 23-year member. When I wear the scarlet and march with the band, I take pride and think about our past members. The Toronto Signals is my second family.”
- Richard Roblin (Bass Drum)
I have been a member of the band since it was reformed back in 1960 and I am the longest playing member wearing the scarlet uniform. It has been the most rewarding experience that you could imagine, traveling across Canada and the U.S.A., meeting different band members from other cities and towns. Also you will never find a greater camaraderie among any other organization than Signals Band members.
Give it a try. You won't regret it.
- Ed Robinson (Snare Drum)
I left the band approximately five years ago and never thought I would ever have any connection to it again, except as a spectator. I was wrong!
I visited the band from time to time and remembered what an important part it played in my life. I enjoyed the marching, playing and the great times we had in Toronto and the many towns and cities we visited.
Last year, after seeing the band a few times, I thought, "I walk three fast miles every day without huffing and puffing, maybe I should join it again." I returned!
I am the oldest member and will be eighty-seven in the coming July.
THERE IS LOTS OF LIFE IN THIS OLD GEEZER YET!
- Ron Jordan (Lancer)
Although experience is an asset, it is not required.
We are willing to teach inexperienced players. After all, each of us started somewhere.
If you’re not sure you want to learn how to play a musical instrument, why not join our Colour Guard and be part of the excitement?
Being a member of The Toronto Signals is great fun. You’ll meet new people, visit new places, and gain new knowledge. We’ll provide you the training, if you’re willing to provide the desire.
Our practices are Monday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Fort York Armoury. Right across from the CNE grounds at Lakeshore and Strachan.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you.
2010 promises to be a busy year for the Band and we are in the process of confirming many event dates for the upcoming season.
The Toronto Signals Band is actively recruiting for the 2010 year.
If you are interested in learning more about joining the
Toronto Signals Band click now for membership information
