GALION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Galion Community Band (GCB) is excited to announce its rehearsal and concert dates for the summer of 2024. The band, which has been a staple of the community since 1976, invites all area musicians to join in the celebration of music.

Rehearsals are scheduled for June 9, June 23, June 30, July 14, July 21, and July 28. All Sunday rehearsals will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the band room of Galion High School.

The band will perform two concerts, on Saturday, July 6 at 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, August 4 at 3:00 p.m. These concerts will be held at the pavilion of the First United Church of Christ, located at 248 Harding Way West in Galion. The concerts are free to the public, with a free-will donation being requested. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the performances by talented local musicians.

The July 6 concert will be a patriotic celebration of the Fourth of July, featuring the Galion Community Chorus. The band and chorus will honor all veterans at this concert.

The August 4 concert will be dedicated to Mr. Lew Friend, a 1978 Galion graduate whose music career took him to the Army Band and Ashland University. Friend, who recently retired from teaching, has been active with the Community Band from its inception and has performed with many of the area’s big bands and performing ensembles.

The GCB welcomes musicians from all over the area. Last year’s band included community members with experience in various military bands, as well as students from Galion, Crestline, Northmor, Col. Crawford, and Clear Fork. Organizer Brian Treisch expressed hope for a great turnout from students of surrounding schools to join the challenging summer program. The band is particularly interested in recruiting more woodwind players. For any questions, Treisch can be reached at 419-566-5326.

Support for this year’s band comes from the Galion Community Foundation, Metronome Music, Bill and Marilyn Stepro, Schneider Funeral Home, H. R. Wolf Hardware, the Galion Kiwanis, and Phil’s Deli. Additional support is provided by the Galion City Schools.

For more information about the Galion Community Band and their summer programs, please call 419-566-5326.