Charles City Municipal Band begins 43rd season, invites musicians to join

By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com

The Charles City Municipal Band is preparing to launch its 43rd season and is inviting area musicians of all ages to join in presenting three concerts this summer.

Rehearsals begin Wednesday, May 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the Charles City High School band room. The group meets weekly through early July, with performances scheduled June 1, June 15 and July 4.

Susan Jacob, one of the band’s founding board members, said the group is looking for instrumentalists of all ages and abilities.

“We welcome everyone in the whole family,” Jacob said. “Bring mom, dad, the kids or grandkids for a unique opportunity to make music together.”

Jacob said those who want to participate but don’t have an instrument should reach out to a band board member or director, who may be able to help locate one.

All rehearsals will be held Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the high school band room.

Concerts on June 1 and July 4 will be conducted by Melissa Meyer, director of bands at Turkey Valley High School. The June 15 concert will be conducted by Scott Stroud, director of bands at Nashua-Plainfield High School.

The June concerts will take place in Central Park.

As is tradition, the July 4 performance will be behind the Charles City Public Library, overlooking the Cedar River, and featuring patriotic music as a prelude to the community fireworks show over the river.

The rehearsal and performance schedule is:

• May 21 and May 28 –7:30 p.m. rehearsals, CCHS band room.

• June 1 – 7:30 p.m. concert, Central Park.

• June 4 and June 11 – 7:30 p.m. rehearsals, CCHS band room.

• June 15 – 7:30 p.m. concert, Central Park.

• June 18, June 25, and July 2 – 7:30 p.m. rehearsals, CCHS band room.

• July 4 – 7:30 p.m. patriotic concert, behind the library.

For more information, contact a member of the Municipal Band Board of Directors: Teresa Bertelsen, Susan Jacob, Joel Thompson, Scott Nolte or Jessica Hoeft.