City Band Kicks Off 100 Years At The Bandstand

A large crowd helped the Oskaloosa Municipal Band kick off 100 years of the current bandstand Thursday night.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – A very large crowd helped the Oskaloosa Municipal Band celebrate 100 years of the current bandstand, with the band itself having celebrated 100 years way back in 1964.

Oskaloosa Band Master of Ceremonies Dan Gallagher got things kicked off by giving a bit of history. “The band got together the first Thursday before Memorial Day to dust off their horns and to see what kinds of sounds we could make in preparation for the Memorial Day Ceremony at Forest Cemetery. Let me tell you– this is going to be one fine sounding band again this year.”

“This is a special summer, of course, because 100 years ago our forefathers decided to tear down the original bandstand and to upgrade to what we now know as our current bandstand. On June 1st, 1912, the first concert was performed on this very bandstand. What a privilege it is to perform on such a great piece of history every Thursday night throughout the summer.”

With that the band, under the direction of Bruce Peiffer, kicked off the season to a square filled with people off all ages. Young and old alike enjoyed the sounds emanating from the specially designed century old bandstand.

Summertime treats of snow cones from Sno Biz, popcorn freshly popped by First National Bank Midwest and cold drinks delivered by a special 3 wheel bike provided by Hawkeye Real Estate provided refreshment to the large crowd on hand.

After each selection, the crowd clapped and honked horns in appreciation of another well played selection.

The Oskaloosa Municipal Band plays every Thursday night during the summer months starting at 8 pm. Come join them in celebrating this historic year. You can see a selection of photos from Thursday night HERE.

To learn more about the history of the Oskaloosa Municipal Band, you can follow this LINK to a story that covered last years 1899 “Iowa Brigade Band”.