Peoria Standard

The Peoria Municipal Band is set to commence its 88th season of summer concerts under the leadership of Dr. David Vroman. The season will open with a Memorial Day performance at the Gateway Building on May 26 at 10:30 a.m., followed by the Peoria Memorial Association Program at 11 a.m. This program aims to honor those who have died in service to the country.

The band will then kick off its summer concert series on June 1 at 7 p.m. in the Glen Oak Park Amphitheater, featuring a collaboration with the Morton Civic Chorus. Throughout the summer, the band will perform a total of 24 concerts, showcasing vocal and instrumental soloists, marches, overtures, and music from Broadway and films.

Sunday evening concerts are scheduled to take place at the Fred Huber Bandshell in Glen Oak Park Amphitheater, starting June 1 and continuing weekly until August 10. Emack and Bolio’s Ice Cream will be available during these performances, along with food trucks on select dates: Mac Daddy Spudz on June 8, Grill Em All on July 13, and Tony’s On Wheels/Haddads on August 10.

Wednesday evening performances will occur at Water Street and State Street beginning June 8 and running each Wednesday until August 6. These events are hosted by Pat Sullivan and his team at Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery, where seating and food are provided.

Two special Friday evening performances are planned for this season: one at St. Philomena’s Church and School on June 27 at 7 p.m., and another at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church on July 18 at 7 p.m.

All concerts by the Peoria Municipal Band are free of charge with adjacent parking available. Attendees often bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the music outdoors.

Formed in 1937 through efforts by Local 26 of the American Federation of Musicians and local citizens, the Peoria Municipal Band has been a staple in community entertainment for decades. Current members include many local music teachers selected through auditions who commit to a full season of rehearsals and performances.

For more information about upcoming concerts or other inquiries, interested parties can contact Band Director David Vroman, Manager George Graves Jr., or Publicity Coordinator Liz Driscoll via email.