The Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF Central Band) performed with the Central Military Band of the Latvian National Armed Forces and the Latvian National Guard Orchestra

“Canada and Latvia have a close relationship and share many commonalties, including a love of music. The Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces is proud to have performed with the Central Military Band of the Latvian National Armed Forces as well as the Latvian National Guard Orchestra at the prestigious Song and Dance Celebration. It was a truly unique experience to perform among so many talented musicians, singers, and dancers.”

– Captain John Fullerton, Commanding Officer Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces

• Some of the ensembles routinely generated from within the CAF Central Band include:

  • The Concert Band;
  • The Parade Band;
  • The Jazz Combo; and
  • The Cormorant Chamber Trio.

• Canada and Latvia enjoy excellent relations. Canada was the first G7 country to recognize the restoration of Latvia's independence in 1991, and one of the first countries to ratify Latvia's accession to NATO in 2004. In February 2017, Latvia became the first EU member to ratify the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). 

• Canada is leading a robust multinational NATO battle group in Latvia as part of Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s contribution to NATO deterrence and defence measures in the eastern part of the Alliance. 

• In the face of today’s rapidly changing and unpredictable security environment, Canada remains committed to maintaining and strengthening the transatlantic bond and providing credible, value-added contributions to NATO operations.  

Associated links

• Imagery of the CAF Central Band performances’ in Latvia
• CAF Central Band Facebook page
• NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup Latvia Facebook Page
• Operation REASSURANCE home page
• CAF Operations Twitter
• Song and Dance Celebration home page
• #weareNATO
• #latvia

Capt Matt Zalot
Public Affairs Officer
Task Force Latvia Headquarters
Phone: +371 670 73 242 (office) +371 234 74017 (mobile)

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 1-613-996-2353
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca