PARIS — The Yankee Brass Band is performing at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 27, on the Paris Hill Common. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be in the First Baptist Church of Paris Hill. The Concert is free; however a free-will donation will be taken.

The Band will be also be performing at Mechanics Hall in Portland on Friday, July 28, and at the Bethel Historical Society in Bethel on Saturday, July 29.

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.  A series of concerts in the surrounding area were given. The band has been meeting every year since on the last full week in July. The band now meets in a different state in New England each year and performs historical concerts on village greens, 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 mid-19th century brass band music which is performed on original antique instruments. The music, drawn from many New England bands, consists of marches, dances, opera overtures, solos and popular musical selections. The band and conductor Maybery encourage serious scholarship and research. Their goal is to create a carefully researched recreation of a mid-19th century brass band concert similar to those heard in small towns throughout Maine and New England. The highlight of this year’s concerts will be Paul Perfetti performing on his E-flat cornet.