Huntington Community Band celebrates its 80th Anniversary in Heckscher Park

HUNTINGTON, NY — The Huntington Community Band will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2026 with a five-concert summer series that honors both the band’s rich history and the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Founded in 1946 by educator Rufus Kern, the Huntington Community Band is one of Long Island’s longest-running community music organizations and is proud to celebrate its 80th anniversary. Originally formed by returning World War II veterans, professional musicians, educators, and dedicated local performers, the band was created to provide outstanding concert band music for the community and a meaningful musical outlet for musicians of all backgrounds. Today, under the leadership of Vickie Henson, the multigenerational ensemble continues that mission through its longstanding summer concert tradition at Heckscher Park, while also investing in educational outreach and enabling future generations of musicians and audiences.

Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy music under the stars!

On Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 8:00 PM, the Huntington Community Band launches its 80th summer season with a musical celebration of two historic milestones: America's 250th anniversary and the band's 80 years of community music-making. This inspiring program honors the nation's heritage through music that reflects its history, ideals, and enduring legacy. Featured will be a musical setting of the complete text of The Declaration of Independence, narrated by Mr. Gene Forman, director and owner of From Stage to Screen.

The evening will also showcase the 2026 HCB Distinguished High School Musician Scholarship recipients as they perform alongside the band, highlighting the next generation of Huntington's musical talent.

On Wednesday, July 8, audiences will enjoy “Timeless Treasures,” a concert featuring beloved music from a variety of genres alongside selections that have helped shape the Huntington Community Band’s 80-year journey. From cherished band classics to jazz favorites and iconic popular music arrangements, the program highlights the music that has connected generations of performers and listeners.

Jazz takes center stage on Wednesday, July 15, with “Jazz from Stage and Screen.” The evening will open at 8:00 p.m. with a performance by the HCB Big Band under the direction of Assistant Director Dan Bilawsky. The community band will then present a program showcasing the vibrant sounds of jazz as heard in iconic films and celebrated Broadway productions. Featured soloists will be Justin Marks on Alto Sax, and Christine Dore, piano.

The family-friendly “Cartoons and Classics” concert follows on Wednesday, July 22, blending the playful charm of beloved cartoon themes with the timeless beauty of classical works that have found a place in the world of animation. The concert promises an entertaining evening for audiences of all ages.

The season concludes on Wednesday, July 29, with “Legacy in Motion: Celebrating 80 Years of HCB. This special anniversary concert will feature beloved works including The Stars and Stripes Forever and the 1812 Overture, as well as the world premiere of The Oak and the Acorn by composer Bradley Hartman. Commissioned specifically for the Huntington Community Band's 80th anniversary, the work serves as a tribute to the generations of musicians and audience members who have shaped the organization while celebrating the limitless growth that lies ahead. Adding to the festivities, one lucky young audience member will have the opportunity to conduct the band in the audience-favorite march On the Mall.

As the Huntington Community Band marks eight decades of music for the community, the 2026 summer season celebrates not only the music that has defined the organization’s past, but also its continued commitment to bringing high-quality, accessible musical experiences to audiences throughout Huntington and beyond.

For concert details, performance locations, and additional information, visit the Huntington Community Band website at www.hcband.org.