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Hawaiÿi County Band sheet music. photo courtesy of Peter Anderegg
KeOlaMagazine.com | November-December 2017
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The proposed elimination of funding caused an outcry of public support and fierce opposition from the community. As a result of the community pulling together, the Hawai‘i County Band remains a part of the county budget. Because the band is such an important part of Hawai‘i Island’s artistic and cultural identity, residents would certainly feel the absence if the band were not performing at one of the many events such as veterans’ ceremonies, parades and free concerts. In addition to entertaining locals and visitors, the band also offers unique opportunities to music students in Hawai‘i County that are otherwise unavailable due to lack of funding for art education. Local teachers can bring students to the Hawai‘i County Band and offer them first-hand experiences in performing for live audiences and collaborating with professional musicians. One of the things Peter especially enjoys about playing with the Hawai‘i County Band is performing with people who represent multiple facets of the community. “One of the similarities between our county band and a community band is that it is made up of people from all walks of life,” he said. “I sit next to a woman who writes grants for a living, and the principle horn player is a vice principal at one of the schools. Then we have retired professional musicians who can be a little intimidating. For example, I sit in the horn section with a retired professional French horn player. Our tuba player was the tuba instructor at UNLV and was in the Studio Band of the US Army Field Band. He was also the principal tubist with the Las Vegas Philharmonic for many years. Then there’s a whole mix of folks like myself who were community musicians but never professionals. It is kind of amazing.” Hawai‘i County is fortunate to have its own band woven into the fabric of the community. The Hawai‘i County Band entertains the public during holidays and special events at little or no cost, while promoting an appreciation for creative expression. Young and old alike join together in celebration, while generational differences are tossed aside for a shared appreciation of common enjoyment. The Hawai‘i County Band encourages people from diverse backgrounds to enjoy what it means to be a part of a community. Here on Hawai‘i Island, residents are fortunate for these monthly opportunities listening to a live orchestra while setting aside the stresses of everyday life and allowing time to stand still, even if only for a few moments. n For more information about the Hawai‘i County Band: hawaiicounty.gov/pr-county-band/ or westhawaiiband.com/