Concert Band

Drum and bugle corps are back this summer for the first time in more than two years because of the pandemic. Anoka-based River City Rhythm’s field show is making its only Minnesota appearance on Thursday in Rochester, along with several other corps. Until then, enjoy these performances from when the corps’ horns visited Minnesota Public Radio in 2019 for a special recording session.

Looking for a patriotic soundtrack for your July 4th celebration? We've programmed a 4-hour playlist of classical and Americana music to go with whatever you're doing on Independence Day, from cooking out to watching fireworks.

John Philip Sousa was no stranger to Minnesota. He and his band performed here more than 100 times, including at the State Fair, and he even composed two marches inspired by our state. But there's so much more that connects the March King with Minnesota.

From military to minstrel, and big band to jazz, Black band leaders have helped shape the urban soundscapes in America throughout our history. Here are four worth checking out.

During the holiday season, concert bands perform many seasonal classics, but most are just arrangements of existing orchestral pieces. Here are five works for the holidays written specifically for band.

Alfred Reed's 'Russian Christmas Music' has become a majestic mainstay of the concert band repertoire since its debut in 1944. As the work marks its 76th anniversary, it's worth retelling how remarkable its world premiere was. Listen now to this timeless piece.

The St. Olaf Band celebrated its 125th year in 2016, prompting two authors with connections to the Northfield college to write a history book about the ensemble. Take a journey through its storied past in 'Milestones and Memories of the St. Olaf Band, 1891-2018.'

Celebrate the Fourth of July with our salute to U.S. military bands. Listen now to the wide variety of music they play, and explore their history in our special program 'To Honor and Inspire.'

There is an uncomfortable truth about Henry Fillmore's most famous work for trombone. 'Lassus Trombone' was born and marketed in a crucible of racial stereotyping, minstrelsy, racism and Jim Crow. For those who are unaware of the racist background of Fillmore's signature piece and related works, or who might respond by saying, "It's not such a big deal," here is the story.

G. Oliver Riggs was a real-life Minnesota 'Music Man' in the early 20th century, creating and directing a few dozen bands, drumming up enthusiasm for band music, and raising money for uniforms. Now, great-granddaughter Joy Riggs is sharing his story in her new book, 'Crackerjack Bands and Hometown Boosters.'