BROOKINGS – The Brookings/Area Community Band, one of the region’s most time-honored arts traditions, has announced its 38th concert season. 

The band is in its 16th year under the baton of David Reynolds, director of performing arts at South Dakota State University.  

“I extend a cordial invitation to area musicians to participate. We also hope that music lovers of all ages will come and enjoy the entire series of programs. Bring a lawn chair or a picnic blanket and find out what summer in Brookings is all about,” Reynolds said.

The first rehearsal is slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 23, in the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, on the SDSU campus. There is still time for musicians young and old to register and join in on the fun.  

Themes for this season’s concerts are: 

• June 12  – “85 Years of the Pioneer Park Bandshell” – This concert will harken back to a simpler time and feature selections popular throughout the history of Pioneer Park.

• June 19 – “Wizzards, Witches and Wands” – Children’s night at the community band captures the wonder and magical world of Harry Potter as well as other favorites.

• June 26 – “Broadway Comes to Brookings” – No need to travel to New York when the band will bring highlights from your favorite musicals to you!

• July 3 – “A Star-Spangled Spectacular” – This traditional patriotic spectacular includes  generous portions of Sousa marches and a tribute to veterans.

• July 17 – “Jukebox Jamboree” – The season finale features classic pop hits from the ’50s and ’60s.   

The band will also perform during the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and the Brookings Fourth of July parade.

All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. and are held at Pioneer Park’s historic band shell.  In case of rain, concerts start at 7:45 p.m. and are moved indoors to the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center.  For more information on how to join the band or about the series, call Kathy Larsen at 695-0397.