Toronto Symphony Band

Toronto Symphony Band

Toronto Symphony Band. Formed in 1915 by Harry Jose and R.L. Jose (the latter a french hornist) to promote summer employment for the musicians of the Welsman TSO and Toronto's theatre orchestras. Under the direction of Luigi von Kunits the band played for many summers at the CNE, Hanlan's Point Park, and Scarborough Beach Park and each spring at the Toronto Skating Club carnivals. It also gave radio broadcasts. When the TSO became a full-time orchestra, many of the musicians had to leave the band. In 1935 it was reorganized under L.F. 'Puff' Addison, continued to perform in the Toronto area, and during the early years of World War II made over 100 broadcasts for the CBC. In 1950 Maurice Dunmall became the band's director. Dunmall conducted many concerts in Toronto, including those sponsored by the Toronto Daily Star and given at the Queen's Park band stand. Dunmall resigned in 1958 and was succeeded by George Anderson. In 1959 the band's president and co-founder, R.L. Jose, died, and the group's activities ceased.