Gage Park Bandstand

Gage Park Bandstand. . The Gage Park bandstand was built in 1903 as a dedicated musical performance space for the Brampton Mechanics Band (now known as the Brampton Concert Band). It continues to be enjoyed by the public as an iconic feature of Gage Park., At the turn of the 20th century, the Town of Brampton set out to create its first public park, leading to the construction of the bandstand as one of the park's earliest amenities. In 1902, the town purchased 2.4 acres from Mary Anne Chisholm. In 1903, the adjoining 1.7 acres were donated by William James Gage and his wife Ira Burnside Gage to Brampton on the condition that the land be used as a public community space., The bandstand provided the Brampton Mechanics Band (Brampton Concert Band) with a dedicated space to perform during community events, festivals, and ceremonies. During the 1950s, the original wooden bandstand was moved to Rosalea Park and replaced with a larger bandstand to accommodate the Brampton Concert Band's growing membership., The Brampton Concert Band was established circa 1884 and is one of the oldest continuously operating community bands in Canada. It was founded and volunteer-run by workers from the local Haggert Foundry and called the Brampton Mechanics Band. Since its creation, the band has performed at several community and civic events across Brampton and Peel. Once the bandstand was built, the Brampton Mechanics Band became the official Town of Brampton concert band, funded by the municipality, and renamed itself the "Brampton Citizens' Band". During World War II, the band became part of the Peel and Dufferin Regiment, was renamed the "Peel and Dufferin Regimental Band" and performed at events across Peel. In the late 1970s, the band was renamed as the "Brampton Concert Band" and grew to include a sister organization called the Jazz Mechanics. Since the 1920s, the Brampton Concert Band has won several regional and national awards., In 1973, the Gage Park bandstand was decorated and used as a dais to welcome Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to celebrate the Town of Brampton's 100th anniversary., The bandstand's musical uses are complemented by its historic value as a community landmark, starting point for civic processions over time, dais for the Royal Family, and as the anchor point in Brampton's Gage Park. It is wrapped by the pedestrian promenade, historic trees, picnic spaces, and commemorative plaques. The bandstand's usage and importance are ultimately drawn from its communal value: it was created from, and for, community values., Did you know? A bandstand is different from a gazebo because of its interior roof construction. Gazebos have peaked interior roofs, while bandstands are characterized by having flat ceilings which reflect sound outwards for musical performances. Look inside and see for yourself! ,