The BC Regiment Band at the Vernon Winter Carnival in 2020. (photo from bcregiment.com)
On Sunday, June 7, 1 p.m., at Ladner Bandfest, in Memorial Park, the band will premiere Theodore’s March by Theodore (Ted) Levitt (z’l), a Second World War veteran who served overseas.
Between 1940 and 1945, Levitt composed two pieces: “I Got a Drum for Christmas” and “Theodore’s March” (though he didn’t call it that). The lyrics were never written down, the music never performed. However, his sons, Ken and Stewart, remembered both and, in January 2024, Ken Levitt connected with the BC Regiment Band, and conductor Brian Smith recorded the brothers singing the songs. Several months ago, Smith put them in touch with musician Neil Bliss, who Ken and wife Leah hired to orchestrate the music for what is now called Theodore’s March.
Ladner Bandfest takes place June 6-7, from 11 a.m. to 5.30 p.m., and features more than a dozen bands. Expect to hear marches, Broadway, light classical, light jazz, and some Latin rhythms. Admission is free, but donations help defray costs. Some food services will be available, washrooms are close by, and there’s a park and playground next door. Bring a chair, as there is limited seating. For more information: ladnerbandfest.org.
– information from Ken Levitt & ladnerbandfest.org