Unveiling of the RCMP Band Plaque

On May 23, 2024, a poignant moment of historical commemoration unfolded as a special plaque was unveiled, marking the indelible legacy of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Band. Nestled along the Cst. Michael O’Leary, Victoria Cross pathway at the southern boundary of the RCMP NMC, this plaque stands as a testament to the pivotal role that music and bands played in shaping the culture, traditions, and success of the RCMP.

The origins of this rich tradition trace back to the late 1800s when playing a musical instrument was not just a pastime but a cherished skill among members of the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP). In 1876, the first NWMP band made its debut at Swan River, Manitoba, captivating audiences with its inaugural performance. This auspicious beginning paved the way for similar bands to emerge across NWMP forts on the Prairies and in Dawson City, Yukon.

However, it wasn't until 1938, under the visionary leadership of Commissioner S.T. Wood, that the RCMP Band officially came into being. With a mission to revive the early traditions and character of the Mounted Police, the band became an integral part of ceremonies, celebrations, and events of national historic importance. From welcoming royalty and heads of state to representing Canada and the RCMP abroad, the band's presence resonated far beyond borders.

For decades, the RCMP Band traveled extensively, crisscrossing Canada and venturing abroad, fostering closer ties between the Force and the communities it served. Their performances, marked by skill, entertainment, and a sense of national pride, left an indelible impression on audiences of all ages and backgrounds. As a highly respected institution, the band held a special place in the hearts of Canadians, having performed in more locations across the country than any other musical ensemble in history.

The plaque serves not only as a memorial but also as a reminder of the enduring impact of the RCMP Band. Inscribed with a brief history of its origins and achievements, it pays homage to the dedication and artistry of its members. Moreover, it honors the spirit of camaraderie and service that defined the band's ethos, reflecting the core values of the RCMP.

The plaque highlights the strains of Charles O’Neill’s ‘RCMP Regimental March’ (1952) which echoes the regimental call of the NWMP from 1882. In this music, past and present converged, bridging generations through the universal language of music.

In commemorating the RCMP Band, we not only honour its legacy but also celebrate the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift. May this plaque stand as a tribute to all those who contributed to its storied history and as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

The Plaque reads as follows:

RCMP Band

From the outset of the long and colourful history of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, music and bands contributed to the Force’s culture, traditions, and overall success. As playing a musical instrument was a very popular pastime in the late 1800’s, many members of the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) were also capable musicians. The first NWMP band was formed at Swan River, Manitoba, where it gave its première performance on May 24, 1876. In the fall of that year, the group also played during ceremonies for the signing of Treaty No. 6 at Forts Carleton and Pitt, and in 1877, performed the same role at Blackfoot Crossing for the signing of Treaty No. 7. The success of the Swan River band on those occasions quickly led to similar groups being formed at many NWMP forts on the Prairies, and at Dawson City in the Yukon.

In 1938, efforts by Commissioner S.T. Wood to rekindle the early traditions and character of the Mounted Police led to the formation of the RCMP Band. Over the years, members of the Band regularly took part in ceremonies, celebrations, and events of national historic importance, welcomed royalty and heads of state and represented Canada and the RCMP abroad. Before ceasing operations in 1994, the Band traveled extensively across Canada and abroad promoting closer ties between the Force and the communities it served. Accomplished, entertaining, and impressive in concert, the RCMP Band was revered by enthusiastic audiences of all ages and walks of life. It was a highly respected, well recognized, and beloved Canadian institution that performed in more locations, throughout our great country, than any other musical aggregation in history.

Charles O’Neill’s ‘RCMP Regimental March’ (1952) begins with the ‘Regimental Call of the NWMP’ (1882)

Dedicated in 2024 by RCMP Band alumni