Mayor’s Message

A Tradition of Music

Music rings throughout Washington City’s history. We can’t help but feel immense pride in the rich musical traditions that have helped define our city since its pioneer settling. From the Silver Band, organized and led by Frank Staheli in 1902 (which included an autoharp brought from Switzerland), through today, music has elevated our spirits and our community.

For many years, Quentin Nisson’s piano-playing talents filled our hearts with joy. He was a true musical luminary, uniting and uplifting crowds with his mesmerizing piano performances, often at Veterans Park. Year after year, he brought the gift of music to our city, creating unforgettable moments for all to cherish. Today, we are fortunate to have Quentin’s sons—Bob, Garth, and Kelvin—carry on this cherished tradition as the Nisson Band, ensuring that the legacy of their father endures.

From those early days, music became an inseparable part of our city’s identity. Today the Washington City Concert Band is composing a new chapter in our musical story. This talented group of musicians, specializing in brass and wind instruments, skillfully weaves melodies that resonate through our community and beyond.

The concert band started in 2014 with a handful of enthusiasts looking for a way to continue playing. Today the group consists of 55 active musicians, including two of the original members, Sara Lang and Jaime Sullivan, who have been playing alto sax together since meeting in middle school band class years ago.

The band is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization, but the community definitely profits from their rich talent. The group presents annual fall and spring concerts, while also performing at events like Cotton Days, local parades, ribbon cuttings, and others. They practice weekly, on Tuesday evenings at 7:00 PM, except during the summer, and always welcome new musicians interested in performing, even if it’s to reignite a talent that may be flickering.

Under the guidance of Director Steven Saline, the concert band consists of many talented artists on instruments such as the trumpet, flute, clarinet, saxophone, and many more. The band is interested in soliciting additional talent, particularly on bass instruments like tuba, trombone, and baritone. They are also looking for auxiliary percussion players.

Of the band, founding member Sara Lang said “The Washington City Concert Band is a place for adults to be able to play and perform, where they may otherwise not have a place. It’s for casual players, who may have played in high school or college, to continue doing what they love.”

Having attended their concerts and performances, I’m thrilled to invite the community to the band’s upcoming concert, set for Tuesday, November 28th, at 7:00 PM at Pine View High School. Admission is free, and this year’s performance promises to be a musical extravaganza, featuring songs by the legendary Eric Clapton, as well as beloved classics, including “Singing in the Rain” and “Take on Me”. Get ready for a night of nostalgia, inspiration, and musical enjoyment!

Mark your calendars, invite your friends and family, and join us for an evening of fantastic musical entertainment. If you’re a past musician looking to be a part of something special, reach out to the group at washingtoncityband@gmail.com and join in the fun! Let’s come together to support and celebrate the Washington City Concert Band, and all the melodies and memories that have shaped our community for generations.

-Kress Staheli

Mayor

kress@washingtoncity.org