Oskaloosa City Band to Celebrate 160 Years with Patriotic July 4th Concert
Oskaloosa City Band 2024
Oskaloosa, IA — As part of its milestone 160th anniversary, the Oskaloosa City Band is set to perform a grand patriotic concert on July 4th, promising a memorable celebration for the community. Under the direction of Bruce Peiffer, who has led the band since 2006, the event is poised to be a highlight of the city’s Independence Day festivities.
The concert will take place at the historic bandstand in the city square, beginning with the “Star Spangled Banner” and featuring a variety of patriotic pieces, including “Stars and Stripes Forever” and an armed services medley. This medley will honor veterans and current service members, inviting them to step forward when their respective service songs are played. Additionally, the American Legion, VFW, and Boy Scouts will conduct a flag-raising ceremony at the courthouse, adding a solemn and respectful touch to the evening.
“The Fourth is always a big patriotic concert, and it happens to fall on our regular Thursday night performance,” said Peiffer. “We always like to honor the veterans and current service members, which is a highlight of the event.”
The band, known for its diverse range of musicians aged 16 to 84, showcases the community’s talent and dedication to the arts. “They are all here to make great music,” Peiffer noted. “The relationships are built around the music, which brings everyone together despite the age differences.”
This year’s concert holds special significance as it commemorates the band’s 160th year. Established in 1864, the Oskaloosa Municipal Band has been an integral part of the community, providing a source of musical entertainment and civic pride for generations. Despite various challenges, including recent changes in the way the band tax is administered, the community’s support remains steadfast. “Oskaloosa treasures the band, and I don’t foresee any problems with funding here,” Peiffer expressed confidently.
Over its long history, the band has been led by numerous directors, with Peiffer taking the baton from Anita Meinert in 2006. Even with a brief interruption due to COVID-19, the band has maintained its tradition of weekly summer performances. This season, the band will extend its concerts until August 8th, aligning with the start of the new school year for many of its younger members.
As the Oskaloosa City Band prepares for this momentous concert, the community eagerly anticipates a night of music, patriotism, and celebration. The band’s enduring presence highlights the power of music in bringing people together, honoring their shared heritage, and creating lasting memories.
