Country

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United States of America

Genre

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Band

 

The South Shore Concert Band is a classical music ensemble based in the South Shore region of Massachusetts. The band was founded in 1972 by a group of local musicians who shared a passion for classical music and wanted to create a community-based ensemble that would provide opportunities for musicians of all ages and skill levels to perform together. The founding members of the South Shore Concert Band included a mix of amateur and professional musicians, including music teachers, college professors, and members of local symphony orchestras. The band's first conductor was Dr. Richard Given, a music professor at Bridgewater State University who had previously conducted the Boston Pops Orchestra. Over the years, the South Shore Concert Band has grown in size and reputation, attracting talented musicians from across the region. Today, the band is comprised of over 70 members, ranging in age from high school students to retirees. The band's current conductor is Maestro Donald Running, who has been with the ensemble since 1999. The South Shore Concert Band has performed at a wide variety of venues and events throughout its history, including concerts at local schools, churches, and community centers, as well as outdoor performances at parks and festivals. The band has also collaborated with other local arts organizations, such as the South Shore Conservatory and the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra. One of the highlights of the South Shore Concert Band's history was its performance at the 1996 National Concert Band Festival in Chicago, Illinois. The festival, which is held every two years, brings together some of the best concert bands from across the United States for a week of performances and workshops. The South Shore Concert Band was one of only a handful of ensembles from Massachusetts to be invited to the festival, and its performance was well-received by both the audience and the judges. In addition to its performances, the South Shore Concert Band has also received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2012, the band was awarded the Sudler Silver Scroll, which is considered one of the highest honors in the concert band world. The award is given by the John Philip Sousa Foundation to recognize outstanding community concert bands that have demonstrated excellence in performance and repertoire. The South Shore Concert Band has also been recognized for its commitment to music education and outreach. The band regularly performs at local schools and offers workshops and masterclasses for young musicians. In 2015, the band was awarded the Massachusetts Music Educators Association's Gold Award for its contributions to music education in the state. Despite its many accomplishments, the South Shore Concert Band remains committed to its original mission of providing a welcoming and inclusive community for musicians of all levels. The band's members come from a wide variety of backgrounds and professions, but they all share a love of classical music and a desire to share that passion with others. In conclusion, the South Shore Concert Band is a classical music ensemble with a rich history and a bright future. Founded in 1972 by a group of local musicians, the band has grown into a respected and award-winning ensemble that is known for its high-quality performances and commitment to music education.

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