Naperville Municipal Band Association Inc

Overview

The Naperville Municipal Band Association Inc, commonly referred to as the Naperville Municipal Band, is a U.S. nonprofit organization with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 366642491. The organization has a rich history dating back to 1859.

History

The band was first established as the Naperville Brass Band in 1859, with its debut performance on Independence Day. Over the years, it underwent several name changes, reflecting its evolution and the various organizations and businesses that supported it. Notable transformations include becoming the Naperville Light Guard Band after the Civil War, later merging with the Lounge Factory Band, and finally adopting its current name as part of its official chartering process.

In 1928, the band was officially chartered as the Naperville Municipal Band Association. This period saw significant growth under the leadership of Elmer Koerner, who not only led the band but also reformed the musical education system in Naperville's schools. Koerner's legacy continued even after his untimely death in 1965, with his former student Ron Keller taking over as director.

The band has had four major band shells in Central Park. The first was a small gazebo-style structure. A larger wooden band stand was built in the early 20th century, replaced by a cement band shell in 1966, and later by the Naperville Community Concert Center in 2003. This facility provides year-round practice capabilities and serves as a venue for both indoor and outdoor performances.

Activities

The Naperville Municipal Band is known for its summer concerts held every Thursday evening in Central Park from June to mid-August. These events are free and attract a diverse audience. The band also performs at various civic ceremonies, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

In addition to the primary band, the organization established the Naperville Municipal Big Band in 2004. This ensemble focuses on big band music and is composed of Municipal Band members along with other community musicians.

The band supports lifelong musicianship, featuring members ranging in age from teenagers to seniors. It has contributed significantly to Naperville's cultural scene by hosting themed concerts and promoting community engagement through music.

Legacy

The Naperville Municipal Band has been recognized for its contributions, including being honored as a "Local Legacy" by the Library of Congress. Over its long history, it has grown to a roster of over 70 members and continues to be a vital part of Naperville's cultural fabric, offering entertainment and enrichment to the local community.