BROOKINGS – The Brookings Area Community Band, one of the region’s most time-honored arts traditions, has announced its 35th concert season.  

The band is in its 12th year under the baton of David Reynolds, performing arts director at South Dakota State University. Returning as assistant conductor will be Don Crowe, SDSU professor of music education.  

“I extend a cordial invitation to all musicians to participate, and to all music lovers to come and enjoy the entire series of programs,” Reynolds said. “Bring a lawn chair or a picnic blanket and find out what summer in Brookings is all about.”

The first rehearsal is slated for 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 21, in the Christy Ballroom, Pugsley Hall, on the SDSU campus. There is still time for musicians young and old to register and join in on the fun.  

Themes for this season’s 7:30 p.m. Sunday concerts are: 

• June 17: “Around the World in 60 Minutes” – The band presents folk songs, medleys and other musical reminders of summers travel to far-away places.

• June 24: “Kids in Capes” – The band’s traditional children’s night captures the animated world of superheroes.  

• July 1: “An American Salute” – This traditional patriotic spectacular includes generous portions of Sousa marches, free watermelon and a tribute to veterans.  

• July 8: “Echoes of the Past” – From Sousa and Berlin, to Rodgers and Hammerstein, the band will perform time-honored arrangements spanning 100 years.

• July 22: “At the Hop” – The season finale features music by the recognizable pop icons  from the ’50s and ’60s.

There will be complimentary food and snacks served at all concerts.  

The band will also perform during the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and the Brookings Fourth of July Parade.  

All concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. and are held in the bandshell in Pioneer Park. In case of rain, concerts start at 7:45 p.m. and are moved indoors to the Performing Arts Center.  For more information about joining the band or the series, call Kathy Larsen at 695-0397.

Courtesy photo