The Swiss Farmer Band

The Swiss Farmer Band was originally founded over thirteen years ago by a group of Swiss immigrants most of whom, as the name implies, were farmers or involved in farm related businesses. The goal of the founding members was to continue the European brass band music tradition in their new homeland.

Today, the band of 19 members has diversified and now includes Swiss, German and Canadian musicians alike from the ages of 19 to 79. They practice weekly in Milverton, Ontario, and come from all over southwestern Ontario to do so -- from Walkerton to Waterloo, from Blyth to Grand Valley.

Their lively mix of traditional Swiss, German, and concert music can be heard at various functions throughout the year including, of course, the Swiss National Day Celebration in Moncton and their annual fall concert and dance held in November of each year in Milverton (November 17th this year). They have performed at the Christkindl Market since it was started 11 years ago. It has now become somewhat of a band tradition to end each year with a
Sunday afternoon performance at the Market. It's an event that reminds many of the players of their European backgrounds as much as their music does. 

Check out when you can see them.