Laramie Municipal Band to Kick Off Summer Concert Series
The Laramie Municipal Band will kick off its summer performances at the 32nd annual Freedom Has a Birthday presented by Rocky Mountain Power 4th of July Celebration at Washington Park. The concert, taking place in the Edgar J. Lewis Bandshell at 10 am, will lead into the Municipal Band’s Summer Concert Series. This free, community event takes place Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m. in the Edgar J. Lewis Bandshell from July 10th through July 31st.
The Laramie Municipal Band has existed since before Wyoming received its statehood. It is comprised of community members from Albany and Laramie County, high school, and University of Wyoming music students. Once again, Dr. Robert Belser will be at the helm for his 20th year as Band Director.
“Some may call it old-fashioned, but I think the Laramie Municipal Band brings a certain nostalgia that people are looking for; we always have quite the turnout,” Dr. Belser says.
Dr. Belser retired from his position as Director of Bands for the University of Wyoming in August of 2023, so he gets to work with past and present music students – a highlight of this series for him.
“Because of the wide range of styles and music that we cover, each member of the band must be well versed,” says Dr. Belser. We only rehearse each performance once on the Monday prior to the concert. It is a privilege to get to work with such talented musicians.”
The Municipal Band performs music from many genres ranging from classic band marches, show tunes, popular music, and music of the West. Plus, there is often a theme to each concert.
“I like to have a theme, it’s an opportunity to connect and banter with the audience. We have some new themes for this year’s series including a That 70’s Show theme that will feature music from the 1670s, 1770s, 1870s, and the more modern 1970s,” Dr. Belser reports.
Following the performance at Freedom Has a Birthday, the first official performance in the series will take place on July 10th, Wyoming’s Statehood Day. This kick-off concert will pay homage to Wyoming Statehood Day with a Western Theme, historic references, and family-friendly revelry. Save the date and make sure to bring your family and friends.