Oceanside
Big Band

Dream Big

Big Band

Founded by veteran music directors Dave Fullerton and Jim Thompson, the Oceanside Big Band is now led by director Joe Foster. Channeling the iconic, danceable sounds of the 1930s and 1940s alongside modern arrangements from today’s top composers, the ensemble features former music educators and highly experienced instrumentalists across brass, wind, keyboard, bass, and rhythm sections. Membership is by invitation, referral, or musical reputation. Passionate about community performance, the ensemble presents two major concerts a year, as well as numerous local appearances throughout the Oceanside area.

Ages 19+ (advanced musicians)
Rehearsals are 7-9pm on Thursdays from September through May at Arbutus Grove Church in Parksville.

Oceanside Big Band Musical Director

Joe Foster

Joe’s musical journey began in elementary school and has remained a defining passion throughout his life. Alongside a career as a professional firefighter, he performed with and directed as needed the Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Band through 1980-1998 & 2008-2019.  He also served as a musician in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves with the 15th Field Regiment RCA Band in 1979-1981 & 1998-2016. After retiring to Parksville in 2019, Joe found a welcoming home with Oceanside Big Band as one of their key musicians. Today, he continues to play trumpet with the band while also serving as its Musical Director.