Peoria Municipal Band Celebrates 75 Years

And Sunday, the Peoria Municipal Band reached a milestone. The journey started back in 1937.

"It was after the Civil War and for about 40 or 50 years there were a lot of professional bands. Peoria had those as well. And then, things changed," said conductor David Vroman.

That change...was when the city of Peoria decided it needed its own sound. In front of a packed Glen Oak Amphitheatre, the Peoria Municipal Band celebrated its 75^th year anniversary. Over the years, it's become a staple in the community.

"I know a lot of people have talked about the memories that they've had coming out to the park when they were little and then growing up and coming back as adults and bringing their children,"  said band member Stephanie Kirk.

Kirk joined the band 12 years ago. She says the memories keep her involved.  

Staying relevant hasn't always been easy for the band.

"We try to change as the times have changed as well. And then people know that there are certain traditional things that we'll do," said Vroman.  

Tom Sander of Peoria says nowadays it's rare to find such a timeless art.

"It's still part of our culture, but it doesn't seem like we make the time like we used to sit down, relax for a couple of hours and listen," Sander said.  

These musicians say it's their duty to keep the traditions of Peoria alive with every note. And they plan to continue that mission...with no cadence in sight.

 "I hope they continue and we go another 75 years or more," Kirk said.  

In efforts to branch out and reach a new audience, the band is doing something a little different this year. Every week it will play on Peoria's Riverfront.

Sunday was opening night of "Sunday at the Park."  The Peoria Municipal Band will be playing at Glen Oak Amphitheatre every Sunday.