Flint Concert Band facts for kids
The Flint Concert Band is the oldest community band in Flint, Michigan, and was founded in 1948 by Gerret Ebmeyer and several other local musicians. Mr. Ebmeyer was more than the Founder and first Conductor; he also excelled as a trumpet player, music teacher, public school Band Director, and administrator.
After the first concert in 1949 the band played regularly at Flint Central High School auditorium for 20 years. Mr. Ebmeyer conducted through 1974. Other conductors have been Frank Tamburrino, Barry Wentz, Ken Duquaine, Mel Keranen, Mike Wolfe and currently Bruce Nieuwenhuis.
The Flint Concert Band is a community band open to all musicians. It plays music from a variety of genres, including marches, jazz and show tunes, along with traditional concert band pieces. Members come from all walks of life, but are brought together through their shared love of musical performance.
One of the original members of the band, Norbert Burwell, continues to play with the band to this day.