Founded in 1986 by Paul Maybery of St. Paul, Minnesota, and a group of instrument collectors and early brass instrument performers, the Yankee Brass Band held its first gathering at the Coolidge Hotel in White River Junction, Vermont. Following that meeting, a series of concerts in the surrounding area were given. Since then, the band has been meeting every year during the last full week in July. The band now convenes in a different New England state each year and performs historical concerts on village greens and at colleges and historical societies. Members of the band hail from throughout the United States, and many members return year after year.

The Yankee Brass band is dedicated to performing 19th-century brass band music which is performed on original antique instruments. Drawn from many New England bands, the music consists of marches, dances, opera overtures, solos, and popular musical selections. The band and conductor Maybery encourage serious scholarship and study, with the goal of creating a carefully researched recreation of a 19th-century brass band concert similar to those heard in small towns throughout Maine and New England over a century ago.

A highlight of this year’s concerts will be Mick Hesse of Farmington, New Mexico, performing on his E flat cornet. The Bethel concert will take place at 14 Broad Street rain or shine. Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring one or more lawn chairs.

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