About the Rockford Community Concert Band

Community instrumental ensembles have been in Rockford since 1994. This initial group featured a combination of winds, brass, percussion, and strings. Conducted by Joseph Bell for ten years, this ensemble performed a repertoire of popular tunes and light classical pieces at various venues throughout the Rockford area. In 2003, two separate instrumental ensembles were formed, resulting in the Concert Band and Orchestra. Retired school band director Nicholas Valenziano was appointed conductor of the Concert Band in 2005. With his leadership, the ensemble grew in size, all while maintaining the high musical standards established in its conception.

In January 2008, Tiffany Engle became the ensemble’s third conductor. Since her arrival, the Concert Band has continued to heighten its level of musicianship through the performance of more challenging literature. More importantly, the musical development of this ensemble has helped to develop a strong and enjoyable social community that also seeks to entertain audiences in surrounding communities. In essence, the Rockford Community Concert Band brings together instrumentalists from all walks of life who simply enjoy making music passionately and meaningfully.

Membership in the Rockford Community Concert Band is open to all interested instrumentalists, (a minimum of high school experience is required). The Concert Band typically offers performances in December and May (along with other Rockford community ensembles). The Rockford Community Concert Band is also a regular participant in the “Bands on the Grand” Adult Community Band Festival as well as Rockford’s “Start of Summer” Celebration.