Few will remember the first concert of the Parkville Symphonic Band in 1995, but this year the band celebrates its 30th season.
In recognition Parkville mayor Dean Katerndahl honored its conductor and the musicians with proclamations from the city. In appreciation of their dedication the band presented conductor Steve Berg and his wife Joyce, also a musician, with gifts at the Fall Concert on Nov. 10.
Conductor Berg is the catalyst that not only created the band but has kept it growing over 30 years. He recruited members by asking “did you ever play an instrument?” Amazingly many of said instruments that had not seen the light of day in many years were retrieved from closets, drawers and attics and the owners appeared for “duty”.
The band was and is a diverse group. More than 440 musicians have cycled through in 30 years. Some members are professional musicians and former school band directors. Most members had or have day jobs, like Jay Kimball, a physician, Steve Bleish, a veterinarian, who claims he became reacquainted with his clarinet practicing in the bathroom with the door closed to deaden he sound. Conductor Berg has taught music and led the band while being the past Parkville city treasurer and teaching astronomy at Park University. His wife and his sister Janet, brother-in-law, Steve Walker, Rhoda Powers and Randy Meek are also original members still playing. It is obvious the musicians enjoy playing and the camaraderie that exists. They have performed a repertoire of music from classical to pop.
In the beginning the volunteer “musicians” met and Berg with patience and perseverance surveyed the group, organized them according to instrument, picked up his baton and the rehearsal began.
Of course, the group then known as the Parkville Band, lacked a concert hall or anything resembling it, so the first concert was on (literally) Main Street close to the Pocket Park. To say it was a stellar performance would not be correct. Today, Park University often provides the space for concerts and Tuesday night rehearsals.
The Parkville Symphonic Band is grateful for its supporters who help fund the cost of music and other expenses. Band concerts raise funds through donations for not-for-profits. More than 30 organizations have benefitted.
The Christmas Concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 at Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church.