The Apple Core Band celebrated a remarkable milestone on June 28, 2026 with its 50th anniversary concert held at 3:00 p.m. The celebration brought together current musicians, former members, friends, and community supporters for an afternoon filled with music, memories, and appreciation for five decades of performances. The concert was held at the Biglerville High School auditorium.
Band Director Donna Kime, who has served as the band’s longest-standing director for 27 years, was honored during the concert with a presentation of flowers as a heartfelt thank-you for her dedication and leadership. Kime has helped guide musicians of all ages and experience levels. She loves sharing the joy of music with others.
Reflecting on the band’s history, Kime shared memories from the 1999 when the Apple Core Band performed concerts at the the circle at the New Oxford square. She recalled how community members would bring lawn chairs, gather together, and sit outside to enjoy the music. “Back then, the traffic wasn’t anything like it is today,” she noted, remembering a time when the concerts created a simple opportunity for neighbors to come together and enjoy live music.
The Apple Core Band’s legacy includes musicians and leaders from many backgrounds. Among its current members are five retired band directors, bringing decades of musical experience and knowledge to the group.
Former members were invited to perform with the band or attend the anniversary celebration as audience members, creating a special connection between the band’s past and present. Trumpet player, Bobby Gillelan founded the Apple Core Band in 1976. He performed at today’s concert. The well filled auditorium included enthusiastic attendees which could be seen toe tapping along, smiling, and enjoying the lively, upbeat melodies throughout the afternoon. Concordia at SpiriTrust Gettysburg brought a vehicle of residents to attend the half century celebratory concert. Apple Core Band history booklets were also available for purchase for $5 at a photo memorabilia table in the lobby.
Adding to the celebration, Colin Presser was invited to write and direct a special piece for the occasion. He joined the band at age 10 and recently graduated from Gettysburg College. He composed “The Apple Core March,” which he conducted during the concert as a tribute to the band’s 5 decade history.
The afternoon featured a wide genre of musical selections, including “Pennsylvania Polka,” “Hometown Celebration,” and “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The concert concluded with a patriotic finale of “God Bless America,” with audience members encouraged to sing along.
With hope for the many more years of concerts Kime said, “We fortunately do have younger ones joining us and that makes me happy to know our band will continue on for many more years.”