Rob Bennett

Rob Bennett has been a member since 1977, when he joined the Peanut Band -- the feeder group for the Band (since renamed the Junior Redcoats). In 1979, he moved up to the Teen Tour Band percussion section, playing cymbals, bass drum and triple drums until 1984. In 1984, he became one of the Band’s drum majors and served in that position until retiring from active membership in 1989. From 1983 to 1986, he served three consecutive terms as president and past president of the Band executive. During this period, his contribution to the community was acknowledged by the Rotary Club of Burlington, which awarded him with a Youth Appreciation plaque. While serving on the Band’s elected executive he originated the idea of presenting commerorative rings to Band members with five consecutive years of service. The ring presentation has become one of the highlights of the Band’s annual year-end banquet and dance. In 1993, Bennett helped establish the Teen Tour Band Alumni Association. His career as a Band instructor began in the early 1990’s, when he began to assist the Drum Majors and Section Leaders during marching practice. He also designed and instructed the drill for a Scarborough barbershop singing group of 75 members, which subsequently won an international championship in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In September 1998, Rob was appointed to the position of full time Managing Director of the Band and Music Programs Manager for the City of Burlington’s Parks and Recreation Department. Rob was also the Chair of the Lt. Governor's Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers selection committee and in 2013 he was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal for his service to youth. In 2022, Rob was recognized as one of 73 exceptional members of the Burlington Community by the Hon. Karina Gould. As such, Rob received the Platinum Jubilee Community Hero Award.