Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How and when did the Keys Community Concert Band begin? The Band began in the fall of 1992 with a small group of musicians who performed occasional concerts, mostly for locals. In 1998, the Band began regular monthly concerts and has grown to about 50 players (during snowbird season). We have performed over 150 concerts.. always free... always fun... always fantastic!
What is the mission of the Band? Our mission is to provide free family outdoor concerts for residents and visitors to the Upper Florida Keys. We invite musicians to join the ensemble either full or part-time.
Where and how often do you perform? The Band performs six scheduled concerts each year, November through April, at Founders Park (Islamorada) and Murray Nelson Gov’t and Cultural Center (Key Largo). Whenever possible, we also perform at community or charitable events. See our current concert schedule.
Who can join? We welcome any musician who can play concert band music at the high school level. There are no auditions and we encourage folks to join, even if they haven’t played for awhile. Current members include experienced musicians, talented high school students, and adults who have recently discovered or re-discovered the enjoyment of playing an instrument. We have instruments to loan.
Where and when do you rehearse? Rehearsals are Monday nights, from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the Key Largo School Band Room, MM 105, oceanside at 104801 Overseas Hwy. Our repertoire includes traditional concert band music, popular music, Broadway tunes, band ensemble favorites and marches.
Is there a uniform? Concert attire is the official KCCB shirt (provided) and black or dark slacks or shorts.
How is it funded? The Band is incorporated as a charitable, 501 (c)(3) organization in Florida under the name Florida Keys Community Concert Band. The Monroe County Tourist Development Council has provided funding for advertising and publicity. We are grateful for additional funding from local foundations, such as the Ocean Reef Foundation and the Hurlburt Family Foundation. Mentor outreach programs are funded, in part, by the Ocean Reef Community Foundation and the Monroe Council of the Arts/Artist in Schools. We gratefully accept donations from individuals. All donations to the Band are tax-deductible.
Who directs the Band? The very talented Mr. Hulber Gagliardini and Mr. Robert Sax. ConcertMaster is Ms. Susan Bazin. The band also welcomes guest conductors from throughout south Florida. Meet Our Conductors
How is the Band governed? The band is governed by a Board of Directors.
What is expected of Band members? To have fun playing and performing music! We expect Band members to attend rehearsals, practice their parts, and to arrive at rehearsals and performances at the designated time. In addition, everyone in the Band helps with publicity, rehearsal and concert set-up, and music distribution.
How can I find out more? For faster response, text concertmaster at 305-394-1123. Or send an email to keyscommunityconcertband@yahoo.com or like us on Facebook, Keys Community Concert Band.
