In 1984, an idea by Roy and Eleanore Hedden brought together 34 Vernon musicians to establish the Vernon Seniors Backyard Band.

The musicians contributed their favourite music from the '20s to the '60s for their 'band book.'

This book now includes 300 pieces of music, two-thirds of which are still hand-written, skeleton music which current musicians embellish on their own.

Throughout the years the band has wracked up an impressive history as recorded in the band's scrapbook.

Always a community supporter, the band has participated in Winter Carnival Parades, jopo Houses, Rotary Choral Festivals, Legion's Pig and Whistles, Hospital Garden Fairs, Creative Chaos, the Pacific National Exhibition (by special invitation), conventions, festivals, private parties, Armstrong's Interior Provincial Exhibition, Feather Fancier shows, special needs parties and entertained in care homes.

Come listen and dance as the band plays at the Halina Centre Thursday, Jan. 16 from 2-4 p.m. Tickets at the door.

In 1994, the Heddens retired from the band and Warren Larsen became conductor. It was he who suggested the then 14-member band add playing for dances throughout the valley to their schedule.

Over the years, attrition slowly depleted the number of band members and since 2001 the band has continued to play its favourite 'eternal music,' classic country and light rock for dances and entertainment with current musicians: accordionist Yvonne Leduc (28 years), bassist Len Leduc (17 years), pianist Ruth Dumont (eight years) and drummer Stewy Stuart (seven years).

"Many good musicians have played with the Backyard Band throughout its 40 years and every one has enriched the band with his or her own style of playing," said Yvonne, band leader since 2002.

"The Backyard Band is always renewing itself musically and we continue the legacy by now welcoming a new member, Diann Boyd, lead guitar, to the band.

"And we still play for the fun and love of music!"