In the spring of 1986, about 13 musicians gathered in Thomaston at the middle school for the first rehearsal of the Midcoast Community Band. Interim music teacher Mary Davis had put out the call for musicians to come and play. Even though Mary’s husband was called out of state for a new job, Mary left the band in the hands of trumpeter and former music educator, John Parker, and his colleague John Weeks, both of whom had been playing with the band.

Parker much preferred playing the trumpet over conducting, And for their first Christmas concert, he asked his wife Jo Anne to conduct a few numbers. She was also a musician who played French horn, organ and piano, and served as choir director at the Thomaston Federated Church. By the band’s next concert in the spring of 1987, Mrs. Parker was the full-time conductor!

Midcoast Community Band has been on the music scene ever since, playing for parades, community events and holiday concerts. Their membership is derived from people of all ages, even now – from 6th grade students to retirees in their 80’s – a true community band!! Though membership has changed over the years, there has always remained a good balance of instrumentation, as many as 30-35 musicians. Flutes, clarinets, oboes, even two bassoons! Also saxophones, trumpets, French horns (or alto horn), trombones, baritone horns, tubas and percussion – the band goes on with a good complement of players.

To celebrate their astounding 40 years, director Jo Anne Parker and the band will present a 40th Anniversary Concert on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 3:30 p.m., at the Rockland Elks on Rankin Street. This will be their first full-length concert at the Elks, though they have played there many times for the Elks Flag Day observance each June. There is handicap accessibility.

Music performed will include some of the band’s favorite pieces over the years – selections from Broadway musicals like “The Sound of Music” and “The Music Man”, music of the Beatles, John Williams, Billy Joel, marches and overtures. Something for everyone! There will also be a roll honoring former players in the band.

After the concert, the audience is invited to stay for refreshments, and to meet with the musicians. Donations will be greatly appreciated to help defray expenses, and to add to their scholarship fund, especially used recently to help young band members attend summer music camp and even provide instruments for players who can’t afford their own.