The Bandwagon
A mobile Music Therapy recording studio.
About The Bandwagon
The Bandwagon first came to Salmon Arm in 2015 through funding from Music Heals, a charitable foundation supporting Music Therapy programs across Canada. After a successful mobile recording unit pilot in local schools, a permanent studio was established in partnership with School District 83.
For over a decade, the Bandwagon studio has supported Music Therapy sessions at Salmon Arm Secondary School, led by Larry Keats, an accredited Music Therapist with 30 years of experience.
In 2016, Music Therapist Roxy Roth joined as a part-time collaborator, expanding programming across middle and high school at the time.
Sessions support students with adapted IEPs and physical, cognitive, social, or neurodivergent challenges, providing music access to those who would otherwise have none. Through music, participants build cognitive, communication, emotional, physical, and social skills.
In 2024, a grant from the Shuswap Community Foundation funded a hardware and software upgrade, enabling peer student mentorship and inclusive, skill-building experiences using music industry-standard technology.
Looking ahead, we're excited to expand Bandwagon programming to additional schools in School District 83 and the broader Salmon Arm community.
"Music Therapy is a discipline in which Certified Music Therapists (MTAs) use music purposefully within therapeutic relationships to support development, health, and well-being. Music therapists use music safely and ethically to address human needs within cognitive, communicative, emotional, musical, physical, social, and spiritual domains."
~Canadian Association of Music Therapy (CAMT)
Larry Keats is an accredited Music Therapist (MTA) with 30 years of experience supporting youth and adults with special needs, and is a member of the Canadian Association of Music Therapy (CAMT) and Music Therapy Association of BC (MTABC).
Larry's approach makes music accessible for all skill levels and abilities, empowering meaningful connection in solo and group sessions rooted in inclusivity. Shaped by his rich percussion experience, his intuitive programming supports growth in social, physical, cognitive, and emotional skills with community at the heart of everything he does.
An active musician and volunteer for over 40 years, Larry performs with the Salmon Arm Armenians, Men's Chorus, Shuswap Singers, and Salmon Arm Community Band. A founding member of the Salmon Arm Folk Music Society, he continues to bring his knowledge and passion to the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival. Larry is a valued music historian, educator, and knowledge keeper in our community.
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The Bandwagon Roadtrip
In 2023, the Bandwagon is became a Creation Station at the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival, giving festival patrons an opportunity to play and record music!
This activation featured teen music students and local musicians as part of the Whimsy Squad, under the direction of Roxy Roth, Larry Keats & Megan Abel.
Thanks to the Salmon Arm Community Music School, the Music Heals Bandwagon team had a space for training sessions!
Support the Bandwagon
Every donation helps students access Music Therapy and connection. Funds raised in our community stay in our community.
Donate today!
Music Heals is a registered charity.
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To get involved or learn more:
salmonarmbandwagon@gmail.com.
