Hastings Community Band Begins Another Season

Do you know Hastings has a community band?  It’s called the River Valley Band and it’s been in existence for over twelve years.  From a small group of 10 founding members to its current size of over 50 players, the band has been fulfilling its mission to provide an inviting place for amateur players of all ages to grow their instrumental skills and to bring concert band music to the community.

Why Should You Join a Community Band?

Many people who join community bands simply miss the experience of playing with an ensemble, as they did during their high school or college days.  Other members are high school students wishing to gain more playing time and to strengthen their skills.  Some of the reasons to join a community band include:

• Stress relief - Maybe you have a stressful job, but music brings you joy and relaxation.  Dust off your instrument and join a welcoming and fun community band!
• Community - Joining a community band allows you to connect with your community. You can also give back to your town by contributing to the gift of music at local events.
• Activity for the whole family - Many community bands welcome student musicians with at least a couple of years of experience, to join the ensemble.  Playing together in a community band can be a fun family activity.  
• Improve with your instrument.  Community bands allow members to learn new techniques from fellow musicians.

The River Valley Band will begin its 13^th season on Tuesday September 12^th.  If you’re interested in joining, just come to any rehearsal.   Rehearsals are held weekly on Tuesdays at the Hastings Middle School band room from 6:45 to 8:45 throughout the school year.  We welcome wind and percussion musicians of all skill levels. We do not hold auditions.  We only ask that you have some prior training, a desire to improve your skills, regular attendance and most importantly - want to have some fun.   If you are in need of an instrument, the Band will help you find one. The Band plays 4-5 concerts each season at the Middle School Auditorium and a short summer season as well.  Our first concert this season will be a Veterans Day Concert on November 12^th where we will share the stage with the 204^th Army band from Fort Snelling. 

More information about the Band can be found at the Band’s Facebook page “River Valley Band”.