The Day the Dream Came Alive

When the Halifax Regional Arts Jazz Band took the stage at Halifax Jazz Festival’s Big Band Day, the sun was high, the crowd was buzzing, and families filled the seats, excited to watch their kids perform.

For Laura Simpson, it was one of those unforgettable moments.

“My son was fortunate enough to win a competition that allowed his band a chance to perform at the festival,” she recalls. “It was an incredible highlight for our family. All the band families attended. We got to see them on a huge stage, on the big screen — and later that night, we watched world-class musicians perform on that very same stage. It was very special.”

Laura Simpson watches from the crowd as her son performs with his band

Across the crowd, Paul Chui, a longtime HJF board member and Scouts Canada leader, was hosting the stage that day. Among the young musicians before him was Stella, one of his own Venturers from the 1st Armdale Scout Group — trumpet in hand and ready for her solo.

“It was a proud moment,” Paul reflects. “As a Scout leader, to see one of your Venturers play in public on the big stage, in a Festival show, with professional tech — it’s an opportunity they just don’t get in school concerts. It opens their eyes to what’s possible if they keep going.”

The Halifax Regional Arts Jazz Band takes their places on stage

For all involved, that day was more than a performance. It was a glimpse of how music ties together generations and community — how one festival can create moments that inspire pride, growth, and belonging.

Laura has volunteered with HJF for years and has seen that connection firsthand.

“Even if I go by myself, I know I’m going to see everyone I love. It’s a gathering,” she says. “It’s where our city feels most alive.”

Both Laura and Paul agree that this kind of magic only happens because of community support.

“Donors should understand they’re not just creating music,” Laura says. “It’s creating ownership of a special event in the city where over 400 volunteers consider the jazz festival THEIR event. It is a coming together of making something so special … and I hope you consider donating.”

Lasting friendships being made on the festival site.

Paul adds, “When you give to the festival, you’re helping create the next generation of players. You’re giving them their first real professional audience.”

💚 Your gift keeps these moments alive — help us nurture the next generation of musicians.