Long & McQuade Learning Series - Richmond Hill, ON

Wednesday, March 11 | 6:00pm

PA System Basics
With Darin Esnard

Join us for this entry-level PA clinic covering basic setup, gain staging, EQ, and mixing. Darin will also discuss speaking and music events and the differences between running a PA for either application.

This 1-hour interactive clinic is designed to demystify the art of live sound reinforcement. Whether working with a portable rental system or a permanent venue installation, attendees will learn the essential physics and workflows required to achieve a clear, professional mix.

Darin Esnard has spent three decades mastering the art of sound and visual presentation. A specialist in everything from Live Pro Audio and Recording to Digital Signage and Corporate Video, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge to every session, having worked with major brands like Long & McQuade, Yorkville, Roland, Synnex and Vistek. Darin knows the gear inside and out. But as a lifelong musician and DJ, he also understands the pressure of the stage. His approach is simple: demystify the technology so you can focus on the performance.

 

Thursday, March 26 | 6:00pm

Drum Phrases in Popular Music
With Craig Gaudaur

Craig will play some popular music of various genres and discuss familiar drum parts. He will also draw comparisons between modern and older music styles sharing similar drum phrasing.

A graduate of the prestigious Humber College School of Music Performance Program, Craig has played drums/percussion in over 20 community theatre musical productions, has worked as a DJ and MC, played in a 22-piece swing orchestra, an 11-piece funk band, and several wedding bands, and continually explores his love for performing and recording music.

When Craig isn't teaching drums, he co-owns an online radio station with his wife Jenn called Revolution Radio Canada, where he serves as a DJ, MC, content creator, and podcast host.

 

Saturday, March 28 | 3:30pm

Behind the Band Score: A Conversation
With Dan Austin & Ryan Meeboer

Spend the afternoon with two of Canada’s rising concert band arrangers as they share perspectives on their featured works and walk through the creative process, scoring techniques, and analytical approaches behind Junior and Intermediate-level compositions. Students and directors welcome!

Dan Austin is an award‑winning Canadian music educator and performer with 25 years of experience. He leads GCVI’s band and orchestra program, publishes accessible music for young ensembles, and remains active as a vocalist, instrumentalist, and jazz bassist.

Ryan Meeboer is a Canadian music educator, composer, and arranger with more than 300 published works for concert band, jazz band, and small ensembles. He teaches at Viola Desmond Public School in Milton, while continuing his active career as a composer, arranger, and versatile performer across a wide range of ensembles.

 

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RSVP and inquiries: [email protected]