SMYRNA – The Smyrna Citizens Band, on July 5, will once again gather in the bandstand above the Smyrna Public Library, 7 East Main St., for the first of its six scheduled summer performances.
Featuring a diverse group of musicians of all ages, the ensemble will celebrate 92 years of performances this year, according to band director Wilbur “Red” Raville, who has led the organization for nearly two decades.
A long time resident of the area, Raville said he is “always impressed” by the loyalty band members exhibit year after year, and considered the weekly concerts an excellent example of “small town Americana.”
“Everybody shows up,” stated Raville. “I’m proud of their dedication and loyalty to the band.”
With members’ ages ranging from 12 to 84, Raville reported it’s not unusual to see two, or even three, generations represented at any given concert.
“It’s a really nice mix age-wise,” said Raville, who added he found the generational aspect of the event particularly noteworthy. “We have a talented group of young people that participate.”
In addition to the musical performance, the weekly event features a book sale, homemade baked goods and a chance to socialize, stated Raville.
“It’s extremely important to the community,” he added. “There are other benefits besides just the concert.”
According to Raville, the first concert of the year will feature the “Overland March,” also known as the “Smyrna Citizens Band March,” “Trauer Marsh,” “West Side Story,” “Stormy Weather,” “Swedish Rhapsody,” “Swing Bolero,” “With a Song in My Heart,” “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” “Garden of Roses,” “God Bless America” and “Stars and Stripes.”
The weekly concerts, held at 7:30 p.m. every Monday between July 5 and Aug. 9, are funded by the New York State Council of the Arts, administered by the Chenango County Council of the Arts, with funds also provided by the Town and Village of Smyrna.