This was a busy weekend for the 1st Nebraska. On Friday, Bill drove to Des Moines to acquire an antique baritone horn from the Liberty Band of Iowa. The maker, William Seefeldt, lived in Philadelphia during the Civil War and later and made a wide range of brass instruments. The baritone we purchased had been completely restored and re-plated to look like new, and it’s a beauty. Playing tests revealed its beautiful open tone and the relative ease of operating its Berliner valves. We’re looking forward to adding this instrument to the band.
Our first performance of 2017 was given yesterday at the Elk Ridge Villages Assisted Living Center. We always enjoy performing for senior citizens because they are so appreciative of our music. Many of the folks used to listen to band concerts in their youth, and some even played in their school or town bands. In addition to standard Civil War favorites, such as, Dixie, When Johnny Comes Marching Home, and the Battle Hymn of the Republic, the 1st Nebraska played a variety of quicksteps and marches. We premiered Washington Greys, Coronation March, George Hart’s Quickstep, Louisville March, and Home, Sweet Home.
Our next outing will be on Saturday, April 1st in Blair, NE, where we’ll perform at the Good Shepherd Communities Senior Center at 10:00 AM. If you’re in the Blair area be sure to drop by. Also stay tuned to our 2017 schedule list as it will be filling rapidly.
1st Nebraska Volunteers Brass Band 