SMYRNA – The Smyrna Citizen's Band will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a commemorative concert on Monday, July 9 in downtown Smyrna.
Under the direction of retired Sherburne-Earlville High School Red Raville, who's directed the band for over 30 years, the band will begin playing at 7:30 p.m. Monday on the second floor of the Smyrna Library.
Prior to the performance, festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with a dedication at 7 recognizing the 100 years the Smyrna Citizen's Band has serenaded the community.
Ever since its founding as the Smyrna Citizen's Band in 1918 under Clarence Parker, the band has been in demand to perform concerts throughout the area for a variety of occasions.
One such occasion occurred in 1945 with the end of World War II. As described in an article written by Smyrna resident and barber John Widger in 1945, a parade was organized to precede an upcoming concert night for the band.
