The 25th annual Gettysburg Brass Band Festival was held at sites around Gettysburg last weekend. The festival was held in collaboration with local nonprofit Music, Gettysburg! and many of the events were held in the recently-constructed pavilion on the Lutheran Seminary campus.
The festival, under the direction of President Ben “Tuba” Jones, strives to provide an experience for adult and student brass musicians looking to continue performing after high school, while improving the quality of life within our town in a way that brings people together through their shared love of live musical performances.
Jones said the festival relies heavily on the contributions of donors and volunteers. “Thanks to all whose donations make the festival possible and to a wonderful group of volunteers who work to prepare for and host during the festival; it’s a real team effort,” he said.
The four-day program included over twenty brass bands from Maryland, New Jersey, and Virginia coming together to provide joy and inspiration to all who attended.
Brass bands were heard around the borough, from the Dobbin House to the Gettysburg Heritage Center, on Lincoln Square, and Baltimore St.
On Saturday, the Benfield Brass Brand (MD), Imperial Brass Band (NJ), Spires Brass Band (MD), Swanee River Ragtime Band, Atlantic Brass Band (NJ), Brass Bands of Northern Virginia (VA), Rockville Brass Band (MD) and Hagerstown Municipal Band (MD) rocked the stage at the seminary with a day-long performance.
The bands displayed showmanship and humor, as well as great music, and seemed to enjoy being there as much as the people of Gettysburg loved having them.
On Saturday, vocalist Hydie Ackerman invoked the true spirit of patriotism in everyone attending as her voice soared as she sang a rendition of Lee Greenwood’s “Proud To Be An American.”
There was even a live instrument petting zoo available to those of an inquisitive nature, in hopes of inspiring one’s curiosity. Those brave enough to pet the instruments were rewarded with free snow cones.
For more information please visit https://wwwgettysburgbrassbandfestival.com.
Holly Weaver, Reporter, was raised by two United States Marine Corps sergeants in West Chester Pennsylvania. She is a wife and a mother to four children. She tries to live by and teach my children that while every day may not be good, there is something good to be found in every day.
Congratulations on 25 years, Ben! Also; congratulations to all the participants, supporters and venues! Music lovers love Gettysburg!
Thanks, tuba player, Bill😀
I was sad to find out about this after the fact. My husband and I heard live band music one evening as we strolled through the college, but I had no idea a festival was going on. Since it happened, I saw the flyer in an old paper and read this article online.
It was on our calendar but we could have highlighted it more in Friday’s newsletter. We’ll do better next year!