Sunbury City Band to hold annual spring concert Monday

Kyra Smith-Cullen, The Daily Item, Sunbury, Pa.
·2 min read

Apr. 27—SUNBURY — The Sunbury City Band is holding its annual spring concert on Monday at 7 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, 15 S. 5th St.

The free concert will feature familiar tunes such as pieces from film and Broadway productions, George Gershwin melodies, Native American and South American genres, "Yankee Doodle," "Poor Wayfaring Stranger" and a polka written by Johann Strauss.

Band President Art Montgomery, of Lewisburg, said musical selections are chosen for a variety of reasons.

"Of course we want our performances to appeal to the broad spectrum of musical tastes represented in our audiences. We also want to provide our listeners with something different than they are used to hearing, perhaps broadening their music experience," said Montgomery, who plays the tuba in the band. "Finally, music is chosen which will challenge the players while enabling them to experience varying musical genres."

The band was formed in 1895 and has members from around the Valley, including Danville, Milton, Selinsgrove, Northumberland, Sunbury and more. Montgomery said the band serves the greater Sunbury area. The organization's mission is to provide and promote musical excellence in a community setting. The band starts to prepare in January for its spring concert which, according to its website, includes a variety of musical genres ranging from marches to standard wind band literature to novelty works.

After the spring concert, the band will turn its attention to its summer performances. Montgomery said the band will perform 10 or so concerts in various venues, including area parks, senior living communities, churches, and community social functions such as the Sunbury Riverfest. The annual Holiday Concert is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 22, at 3 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church.

Montgomery said the band is always welcoming new members.

"Our talent level ranges from seasoned veterans to players who haven't picked up an instrument in decades. Persons in all age groups are represented, ranging from high school students to retirees," he said. "Our talented director, music educator Tom Gegenheimer, helps provide a low-pressure atmosphere while maintaining a high level of musicianship and proficiency."

No auditions are required to join. For information on becoming involved, people can visit the band's website, sunburycityband.org, contact Jessie Wilcox by emailing jwilcox6880@gmail.com or calling 570-850-3041.