AirVenture Concert Band Back and Accepting Applications

April 4, 2019 - In 2006, a group of aviators from all walks of life came together during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh to do something they never thought they would in Oshkosh.

More than 80 musicians came together to create the first AirVenture Concert Band. They came from all types of music backgrounds and ranged from adults that played for a living to those who had not played in 20 years.

This group of intrepid performers were sent the music a month and a half before they would fly into Oshkosh with music and instruments tucked away in their aircraft. Being pulled away from the flightline was normally a hard thing to do, but this was different; it was a chance to make music at a flying event with others who shared a unique bond of aviation and music. After two rehearsals together, they played their first concert at the Theater in the Woods.

The time has come to sign-up for the 2019 AirVenture Concert Band. AirVenture attendees have the opportunity to be a part of the only band of its kind put together to play at an aviation event. At least 38 states and five countries have been represented by members ranging in age from 13 years old to those who are in their 90s. Our volunteer musicians go beyond their love of flight and give to others their love of music.

Details for this summer have been formalized. The first rehearsal will be Tuesday, July 23 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. on stage at the Theater in the Woods. Wednesday rehearsal will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in a tent at the Memorial Wall.

We will be performing at the Tuesday air show, playing a few numbers and the national anthem. The concert is scheduled for Theater in the Woods on Wednesday, July 24 from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Interested attendees can apply online through Google Docs. Selected participants can expect to hear back on their role with the group and receive further information via email in the weeks leading up to AirVenture.