Manchester Arts forms community band

Manchester Arts, a municipal arts council that seeks to inspire engagement in and appreciation for the arts, has formed of a community band in West County. Three performances will take place throughout the summer (June, July and September) in Manchester’s amphitheater in Paul A. Schroeder Park. Individuals are encouraged to dust off those cases, grab their instruments and come to join in the music.

Chris Becker, director of bands at Parkway South High and Washington University in St. Louis, will be music director and conductor for the band. He has directed bands in the Parkway School District for 32 years. In addition, Jeremy Knudtson, director of bands in the Valley Park School District, will serve as assistant conductor and manager. A tubist, Knudtson is an active member of the local music community and a private tuba instructor in the St. Louis area.

The Manchester Community Band is open to all abilities, with coaching for those who may be a little rusty. Current players or those wishing to resurrect their performing efforts are welcome. Students, entering as a high school junior or above, can use the opportunity to keep in shape until fall rehearsals begin. Players from Manchester and beyond are encouraged to join.

No auditions are required; everyone is welcome and it is free of charge. Players must play and own a brass, woodwind or portable percussion instrument.

For more information, call Mike Clement at 394-5862 or email manchestercommunityband@gmail.com.