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Muncie’s Hometown Band Is America’s Hometown Band

By Madyson McGill, Ball State Student Media | Published on in Arts and Culture, Community, Local News
Photo provided

America’s Hometown Band is one of the oldest musical groups in Muncie.  Its long heritage has been intertwined with tailor-made programs for all occasions and bringing the Muncie community together through music.  On Monday night, America’s Hometown Band will lend its talents to recognize Veteran’s Day.  But first, we get a look at the group from Ball State student reporter Madyson McGill.

“Stars and Stripes Forever” is just one of many patriotic marches in the repertoire of America’s Hometown Band, the well-known concert band scheduled for a Veterans Day performance at the Muncie Central Auditorium on Nov. 13.

Conductor Roger McConnell says those selections are by design.  He’s been with the group for 30 years, and said audiences can always expect a simple formula that may include a march or overture, a classical piece, dance, popular arrangements, and a patriotic selection.

“I have a feeling that good music is being on top of the mountain, and a concert band is right there with that being on top of the mountain,” he said. “ It’s a patriotic feeling. It is an exuberant feeling that I’m contributing as a conductor to the interpretation of the music.”

The band’s history can be traced to the late 19th and early 20th century with the Lockwood Band, but the current group came together in 1985. Their success, McConnell said, is tied to their musical selections and their strong, unified interpretations and performances.

“Not just the selections we play,” he said.  “It’s how we play and play them together with a unified interpretation.”

Kristi Chambers, assistant director of Marketing and Communications at Ball State University’s Emens Auditorium, has helped set up at least 10 concerts at Emens with America’s Hometown Band, and she’s been to every single one.

“The band is just your hometown band. I mean there’s no other way to explain it, other than the obvious name,” Chambers said. “But, these are just your average volunteer performers who just love music, love what they do.  Because it’s not just your classic music.  They do some fun, upbeat tunes that you may recognize.  Some modern songs.  It’s great for the whole family.”

About 50-60 musicians, professional and amateur, are in the band, which plays about 15 programs each year. Ninety percent of the band are Ball State graduates of all ages, according to McConnell, and he’s proud of the strong musicians in America’s Hometown Band. One of McConnell’s longtime students, David Robins, is known as the wizard of the xylophone because of his impressive skill and quick technique. One member of the band even told McConnell that playing is the best part of life.

“My happiness is being with a really strong group of musicians that are very civic minded and talented. That’s a real thrill for me,” McConnell said.

 

Madyson McGill is a reporter for a Ball State University arts journalism class.