An afternoon of big-band music will celebrate the spirit of the Second World War generation while helping preserve the stories of those who trained, served, and sacrificed.
BRANDON, MB -October 21, 2026 The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) invites Manitobans to step back into the era of 40’s big-band music for a special performance by the acclaimed Mark Humphries Orchestra, in support of the Museum and its mission to preserve Canada’s aviation heritage.
During the Second World War, music was more than entertainment. It was a connection to home, a welcome escape from uncertainty, and a source of comfort and joy during some of the most difficult years in modern history. The sounds of big bands filled dance halls, military stations, and radios, offering moments of normalcy to a population whose lives had been transformed by war.
For the thousands of young aircrew from Canada and around the world, who trained across the country under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, the dangers of war were never far away. Even before reaching the front lines, training carried very real risks. Many lost their lives during training, far from their families and the homes they hoped to see again.
Yet amid the uncertainty, there was music. There were dances, friendships, laughter, and moments of happiness that helped sustain a generation.
“One of the things that stays with me about working at the Museum is the knowledge that these were young people with hopes, dreams, families, and futures,” says Zoe McQuinn, Director General and CEO of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum. “They trained together, ate together, and found moments to enjoy life together. But not everyone came home. Music was part of their lives, and bringing that music to audiences today is a wonderful way to connect with their stories.”
The Mark Humphries Orchestra brings the energy and unmistakable sound of the big-band era to the stage. With a longstanding following across Manitoba, the orchestra celebrates the rich musical traditions of swing and jazz that defined a generation.
For CATPM, the concert is also an opportunity to invite the community to become part of preserving an important chapter of Canadian history.
Located at the Brandon Municipal Airport in a historic wartime training hangar, the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum preserves the aircraft, artifacts, photographs, and personal stories of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. The Museum is also home to Canada’s largest collection of flying Second World War training aircraft, keeping this remarkable aviation heritage alive for future generations.
“Every ticket purchased is an act of support for the Museum and the work we do,” adds McQuinn. “We have a responsibility to remember not only the achievements of those who served, but also their humanity, their courage, and the sacrifices made by them and their families. We hope people will join us for a wonderful performance, enjoy this extraordinary music, and help ensure these stories are never forgotten.”
Event Details
Performance: Mark Humphries Orchestra in Support of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, 205 20th Street (James Ehnes Way), Brandon, Manitoba
Tickets: Adults $40; Students $20; Children 6 and under free. Prices include taxes and service charges.
Purchase tickets: https://www.wmca.ca/events/captm-benefit-concert-feat-the-mark-humphries-orchestra-2026
Box Office: 204-728-9510
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of big-band music, a lover of history, or simply looking for a memorable evening out, this is an opportunity to enjoy exceptional live music while supporting an important Manitoba institution.
Join us for the music. Help us preserve their stories.
About the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, located at the Brandon Municipal Airport, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, restoring, and sharing the history of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and commemorating those who served and sacrificed. Operating from a historic Second World War training hangar, the Museum combines exhibits, archives, educational programming, aircraft restoration, and an active flying collection to connect visitors with Canada’s aviation heritage.
Media Contact:
Zoe McQuinn
Director General & CEO
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
directorgeneral@CATPM.onmicrosoft.com | 204-727-2444
