Cape Girardeau Municipal Band kicks off season; Jackson's to start today

The Cape Girardeau Municipal Band kicked off its 112th regular season Wednesday night with a concert at the Capaha Park band shell.

The band has been sponsored by the city of Cape Girardeau for the past 87 years. Directed by Ron Nall, the band played an Americana-themed show, including everything from American folk favorites to compilations such as "My Kind of Town."

Cape Girardeau Municipal Band concerts are held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays in Capaha Park. Attendants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Concerts are free and last about an hour. Each year the band plays its first performance at the city's Memorial Day observance, then starts its regular weekly concert series the following week.

Each concert will have a different theme, including "Missouri Composers" and "March Mania."

Additionally, each concert will feature a special guest. Cape Girardeau Mayor Harry Rediger guest conducted for the band's opening night. Mark and Lana Cook also performed, singing a duet of many American favorites such as John Denver's "Country Roads" and the American classic "You Are My Sunshine."

"I'm proud that Cape has something so wonderful to offer with a small-town feel," Lana Cook said.

Tim Schmidt, who attended the concert, was also impressed. "It's great to have a free community ensemble," he said. Schmidt enjoys the midweek entertainment and said it's a great place to socialize with friends.

"I really like the new time," Schmidt said. The band used to perform at 8 p.m.

The band has members of all ages: Local teens play in the band, as well as one member who is beginning his 73rd season. Couples, families and people of all ages turned out to see Wednesday's performance.

The Jackson Municipal Band is also beginning its summer season, with the first concert of the regular season at 8 p.m. today. The Jackson band is directed by Scott Van­gilder, and its schedule also features guest performers some evenings. It performs at the Jackson City Park band shell.

Municipal band concert listings can be found at semoevents.com.

rovermann@semissourian.com

573-388-3688

Pertinent Address:

Jackson City Park, Jackson, Missouri

Capaha City Park, Cape Girardeau, Missouri