Bringing the brass to Highland Park

Kokomo Park Band to showcase "Brass and Barbershop" with nod to local history

The Kokomo Park Band (KPB) continues its summer concert series on Wednesday, July 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Highland Park, presenting a unique "Brass and Barbershop" concert. This special performance will feature the distinct sound of a British-style brass band, soloist Glenn Welch on euphonium and a guest appearance by the renowned Kokomo Men of Note Barbershop Chorus. The concert is sponsored by McGavic Outdoor Power.

This week's concert draws inspiration from Howard County's rich musical heritage, where brass bands flourished after the Civil War under the leadership of local figures like Byron Reed and Tom Ogden. Bands such as Kokomo’s "Light Guard Band" and "The Citizen's Brass Band" were once a popular source of entertainment throughout the state in the late 1800s. The KPB will honor this tradition by adopting the authentic instrumentation of a brass band, utilizing cornets, flugelhorn, tenor horns, baritones, euphoniums, trombones, two types of tubas, and percussion.

Under the direction of Maestro Jay S. Gephart, the KPB will perform a diverse repertoire. Selections will span traditional and classical works, offering a powerful showcase of the brass ensemble. The program features the vibrant and evocative "The Seventh Night of July" by Itaru Sakai, the stirring march "The Red Shield" by Henry Goffin, the dramatic "Hymn to Red October" by Lorenzo Bocci, and the inspiring "Go the Distance" by Menken (arranged by David E. Jones). Audiences will also enjoy the lively "Vergnugungszug Polka" by Johan Strauss II, the reflective "Songs They Took to War" by Dean Jones, and the celebratory "Botwood Centenary" by Ty Watson.

Glenn Welch will perform the reflective "Song of the Brother," by Erik Leidzen. He is originally from Ludington, Michigan and graduated from Western Michigan University and served as a bandmaster in The Salvation Army for 25 years. He is longtime euphonium soloist with the Kokomo Park Band and has appeared as a euphonium soloist in thirteen states, accompanied by bands on more than 50 occasions. He currently teaches low brass at Indiana Wesleyan University, leads worship at Sunnycrest Community Church, Marion, and provides entertainment at retirement communities across northern Indiana.

Adding a harmonious barbershop flair to the evening, the Kokomo Men of Note Barbershop Chorus will perform "Strike Up the Bands," a medley arranged by Charlie Rose that masterfully weaves together classics like "The Band Played On," "Alexander's Ragtime Band," "New Ashmolean Marching Society Students' Conservatory Band."

As always, this concert is free and open to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity for residents to enjoy live music in a relaxed outdoor setting. In the event of rain, the performance will move to the Kokomo High School Auditorium; relocation decisions are made after 5 p.m. on concert days.

Don't miss this unique blend of brass band tradition and barbershop harmony, celebrating Kokomo's musical legacy!