Iowa’s Municipal Bands Keep Playing | Des Moines News

The Iowa Municipal Band Festival just wrapped up in Boone, celebrating 34 years of adult concert bands bringing music to life across the state. The Ames Municipal Band returned for its 33rd year, while the Boone Municipal Band has been a fixture since day one — proof that this tradition thrives. Newcomers like the Ballard Creek Big Band, blending jazz and rock, and a smaller ensemble from the Council Bluffs Symphony Orchestra, show the diverse faces of these community bands. Jay Kahn of the Iowa Association of Concert Bands emphasized their vital role, noting over 100 such groups statewide — and shared a touching story of reconnecting with a high school bandmate through music. Even as the festival ends, performances continue through July — a powerful reminder that music is a lifelong passion, nurtured by these enduring ensembles. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1a96c826c3ed4e45