The Rich History of the Ayr-Paris Citizens' Band & The Walter Williams Memorial Amphitheatre

The Rich History of the Ayr-Paris Citizens' Band & The Walter Williams Memorial Amphitheatre

The Paris Citizens' Band, a beloved musical institution in our town, has a rich and storied history that spans over a century and a half! As we delve into the origins of this esteemed organization, it becomes apparent that the exact birth of the band is shrouded in mystery. However, the first mention of a Paris Band can be found in the minutes of a meeting held by the Paris Mechanics Society in 1858 at the opera house of the old town hall During this gathering, the P.V.R. Co. Brass Band was scheduled to entertain the attendees during a break between speeches. Although the meaning of the initials remains uncertain, it is speculated that they stand for the Paris Volunteer Reserve Company Brass Band.

The first official acknowledgment of a Paris Band came in 1875 through an article in the Brant Review. It was in this year that the Paris Musical Society was established, encompassing a brass band, instrumental and quartettes, as well as a chorus Regular concerts were held at the opera house, solidifying the band's presence in the community

Examining the list of Bandmasters, we find that Mr Marchant served as the inaugural conductor, followed by Dickenson Brown Emerson, who led the band from 1876 to 1893. Mr. Emerson, a talented musician hailing from Cumberland, arrived in Paris in 1876 and swiftly showcased his musical prowess. Under his guidance, the band became renowned throughout Western Ontario, reaching the pinnacle of its fame in 1884-1885 when it triumphed in tournaments held in Hamilton, Alymer, Stratford, Brantford, and Waterloo, competing against both Canadian and top-ranked American bands

During this era, it was recorded that, "under Emerson, the Paris

Band transformed from an intemperate group to a temperate one, and during these tournaments, not a single member returned worse for wear."

The early members of the band, George Vincent, Bob Kay, and Alex Kay, among others These dedicated musicians played an integral role in the band's success and contributed to its growing reputation. However, the band's commitment to temperance did not endure. Alex Wilson, a former band member of 27 years, recounts an incident during a regimental trip to Welland and Niagara Falls when three members indulged in excessive drinking, causing a disturbance on the train.

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LOCAL HISTORY

The conductor threatened to remove them at the next stop, but Mr Wilson intervened, assuring the conductor that he would ensure their safe return home. Unfortunately, such incidents tarnished the band's reputation, leading to a confrontation during a Tuesday night rehearsal. The three intoxicated individuals were deemed a disgrace to the regiment, necessitating the intervention of the Town Council, which agreed to provide funds for new uniforms to salvage the band's standing.

Following the disbandment of the Paris Musical Society in 1901, its brass band transformed into the Paris Citizens' Band. However, the outbreak of the First World War resulted in most members enlisting, leaving the band dormant. During the war, the ladies of Paris took charge, and a band predominantly comprising women and boys, led by Mr. Ainsworth, performed in 1917 and 1918. Postwar, both the men's and women's bands gradually ceased operations and eventually disbanded.

A significant turning point occurred in 1927 when Walter Williams Sr. assumed the role of bandmaster, marking the beginning of a 46-year era for him and his son, Walter Williams Jr. Born in Pontypridd, South Wales, Walter Sr. grew up surrounded by music, as his father, Zacharias Williams, served as a bandmaster in Pontypridd After working in the coal mines, Walter Sr. decided to immigrate to Canada in 1926 due

Paris Musical Society Band on corner of Grand River and William Streets, c. 1895 Photo: Paris Museum & Historical Society

to the strike Settling in Timmins, he later responded to an advertisement for a bandmaster position in Paris, ultimately joining the town in February 1927. At the time, there were only twelve members in the band, but under Walter Sr.'s leadership, it began to flourish. Initially known as the "10th Brant Dragoon's Band," the band became independent of the regiment around 1938, leading to the re-formation of the Paris Citizens' Band

Throughout the following years, the band thrived, offering regular Thursday night concerts in King's Ward Park or Walker's Green during the summer. In 1940, the band came remarkably close to winning the Ontario class 'B’ championship at the C.F.E., falling

just half a point short Walter Williams Jr., during this memorable contest, claimed a gold medal for his euphonium solo and was even approached to join the Airforce band. Despite many band members enlisting for World War II, the band persevered, never disbanding. To sustain its existence during this challenging period, Mr. Williams organized bugle bands and drum corps, as well as a junior band, which helped keep the musical tradition alive He continued to lead the band until 1959 when, on medical advice, he stepped down. He had worked as an assessor for the Town of Paris and for Sanderson - Harold Ltd. and was suffering from silicosis.

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LOCAL HISTORY

Walter Williams Jr. became the new bandmaster. In the post-war years, the Paris Citizens' Band continued to grow and thrive under the direction of Walter Williams Jr. The band participated in numerous competitions and parades, earning recognition and accolades for their performances. They also played a vital role in community events, providing entertainment and music for various celebrations and ceremonies. The town further honoured the family's service to the community by naming the original bandshell in Lion's Park after them.

In 1961 the Ayr bandmaster quit, and the two bands merged to become the Paris-Ayr Citizens’ Band. This merger introduced women to the band for the first time. In 1969 the band went to

Scotland, playing several concerts in the vicinity of Ayr, Scotland. During this time Walter's son Owen played cornet with the band, following the family tradition. Walter Williams Jr. led the band until 1973 and then the leadership went to Ernie Crawford with funding coming from jobs and town grants as it had done in past years

Over the years, the name was shortened to simply the Ayr-Paris Band and there has been many changes in its membership, repertoire, and leadership.

However, the band's commitment to quality music and its dedication to the community have remained steadfast. Today, the Ayr - Paris Band continues to delight audiences with their performances, carrying on the proud tradition that was established nearly a century and a half ago.

As we look towards the future, we can only hope that the Ayr-Paris Band will continue to thrive and inspire generations to come. When you visit Lions Park to see a performance, now you know the history behind the bandshell name.

Photo: Ayr-Paris Band 2017