The Fox Valley Concert Band was founded in
January, 1983 as an outgrowth of a smaller ensemble sponsored by the St. Charles
Park District. It was agreed that the Fox Valley area needed and would support
a true concert band, and the present band came into existence because of the
diligent efforts of Paul Siegert and others.
The mission of the Fox Valley Concert Band is twofold:
- To provide opportunities for qualified area musicians to grow in musical
excellence through participation in an organization dedicated to that aim.
- To provide area residents continuing opportunity for exposure to the best in the concert band repertoire.
From the outset it was agreed that the band would operate on a year-round
basis, contrary to the practice of most community bands. Also, it was chartered
as a totally volunteer organization with the exception of a paid musical
director. Support was immediately forthcoming from individuals, businesses and
other groups throughout the Fox Valley. In addition, the band has received
grants from the cities of St. Charles and Geneva, the United Arts Board of the
Fox Valley and the Illinois Arts Council. Since the end of the first year, the
band has operated in the black and continues to be financially sound.
The first rehearsal was held in the band room at St. Charles High School on
January 11, 1983 under the baton of Bruce R. Patzer, who had served as conductor
of the earlier Park District band. The initial 1983 roster showed 40 members.
The first concert was held in the Norris Center, St. Charles, in May of 1983.
In January, 1984 Richard K. Radek, formerly principal trumpet, was selected as
Conductor. Mr. Patzer assumed the important role of principal percussionist and
remained with the band for two more years in that position. Under the
leadership of Mr. Radek the band became incorporated as a not-for-profit
organization in the State of Illinois and has grown both in numbers and in
musical quality.
Frank V. Bibb was appointed Conductor in January, 1988. He held the position
through mid-1989 and, after a series of guest conductors, was ultimately
replaced by Craig Roselieb in mid-1990. The current conductor of the band, Dr.
Colin Holman, took over in January, 1993. The present membership consists of
over 75 musicians, is well-balanced musically and draws from more than 30
communities in the suburbs of Chicago. The largest numbers come from
St. Charles, Naperville, Aurora and Elgin. Members come from all walks of
life and some perform professionally.
Each year the band performs formal Fall, Winter and Spring concerts, plus a
special Christmas concert. In addition, the band stages a regular summer
concert series performed in various area communities.