The Kiwanis Music Festival of St. John's was started in 1952, two years after the formation of the first Kiwanis Club in Newfoundland. The first of these clubs - the Kiwanis Club of St. John's - comprised members who had a strong interest in music and were very keen on the idea of starting a proper music festival. This first festival proved to be the foundation for the Music Festival movement within the province. The 1952 Festival consisted of a two day event, featuring 193 entries and two adjudicators. Since then, the Festival has achieved exponential growth, and now includes a full 12-day schedule that features over 2400 participants and 10 adjudicators. It is the largest festival in Eastern Canada.
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About the Kiwanis Music Festival of St. John's
To stimulate in the citizens of Newfoundland a greater appreciation and understanding of good music.
To discover and encourage musical talents in young and old.
To make available to those who compete, the constructive criticism of musicians who are outstanding in their profession and who have the experience of competitive festivals elsewhere to bring to this Province.
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The Kiwanis Music Festival of St. John's gratefully acknowledges financial support from various friends of the Festival.
The Kiwanis Music Festival Association of St. John's gratefully acknowledges the generous and continued support of the Provincial Government in furthering the musical efforts of our young people. Funding is provided through the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's Cultural Connections: A Provincial Arts and Cultural Strategy. This strategy is a joint initiative of the Department of Education and the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Recreation.
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