Jim Johnston is a long-standing member of the Salmon Arm music community. Mr. Johnston obtained his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of British Columbia. Jim is in high demand throughout the interior of BC as a pianist and music director. He can be heard playing engagements with numerous ensembles. Mr. Johnston’s musical leadership is reflected in his work as co-director of the Salmon Arm Community Band, the accompanist for several choral ensembles including the Northern Lights Chamber Choir, the Salmon Arm Men’s Chorus, and the Salmon Arm Intergenerational Choir.
His community contributions as a performer at several senior care facilities is greatly appreciated by all. He has contributed to musical theatre productions, music festivals, and the BC Senior Games by providing supportive leadership and excellent musicianship. Jim’s long career has influenced countless professional musicians whom he has mentored and actively encouraged. As a community of musicians and music enthusiasts, we hope his guidance and leadership continues for many more years to come!
- Syd Griffith recently relocated to Salmon Arm and is enjoying co-directing the Salmon Arm Community Band with the talented Jim Johnston. In addition, Syd is conducting the Northern Lights Chamber Choir. Ms. Griffith obtained her Bachelor of Music Performance from the University of Toronto and has been an active leader in BC music and arts for decades. Her commitment to community-based music performance and artistic collaboration has been reflected in her work as musical director of the Music in the High Country Festival, the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music (KISSM), Higher Ground Community Youth Choir, the Kamloops Community Band and as the co-director of the Salmon Arm Community Band.
- Syd began her musical career as a saxophonist and has performed with the Kamloops Symphony, and the North York Symphony and several jazz ensembles which she continues to enjoy!
- Ms. Griffith enjoys creating opportunities for community music and she has founded a number of initiatives including the SD73 District Orchestral Strings programme, the Kamloops Jazz and Blues Society, and the KJBS International Concert Series. As a result of her efforts, Ms. Griffith has been honoured to receive the Premier’s Excellence Award for Innovation for the Province of British Columbia, and the Woman of Distinction Award for the City of Kamloops.