The Newton Municipal Band will honor former 50+ year member and long-time director of the band, Leland L. Cook, when it takes to the stage for its second concert of the season.
The concert will begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday at Maytag Bowl in Maytag Park. The concert is part of the Newton Parks and Recreation Summer Concerts in the Park Series.
Cook turned 100 years old this past spring. In addition to being a band director in the Newton Schools, he directed the Newton Municipal Band for many years. He was also a mainstay of the clarinet section well into his 80s. He currently resides at Park Centre and enjoys hearing from his friends. In honor of his service and many contributions to the band, the upcoming concert is dedicated to him.
Dan Stecker, band director at Pleasantville High School, will step out of the trumpet section and onto the podium to direct the evening’s concert. He has chosen a variety of marches and other musical styles, sure to keep everyone’s toes tapping. Pieces will include “John Williams Swings!” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Hosts of Freedom,” “Pentland Hills Concert March,” “On Wings of Eagles Concert March,” “Three Ayres from Gloucester” and “On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss.” The band is pleased to have Linda Erickson serving as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
The band invites you to bring lawn chairs or blankets and come to the park Thursday evening. Bring a picnic supper if you wish. The park is the perfect setting to enjoy the music, as the band salutes centenarian musician, Leland Cook.