Dominic Greco Band to play Newcomerstown

One of Ohio’s most historic musical organizations is coming to Newcomerstown for an afternoon of music and hometown pride.

ARTSNCT announced the Dominic Greco Band will perform live in concert at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 20 onstage at Newcomerstown Middle School as part of ARTSNCT’s ongoing Arts for All program.

The concert will be presented free of charge, with voluntary donations accepted to help ARTSNCT continue bringing free arts programming and events to Newcomerstown and the surrounding tri-county region.

Before the concert the Newcomerstown Historical Society will host a community lunch in the school cafeteria beginning at 11:30 a.m. The meal also will be offered on a freewill donation basis.

Founded more than a century ago, the Dominic Greco Band traces its roots back to 1917 when the late Dominic Greco moved from Pittsburgh to Dover and formed the original Italian Band for community performances. By 1919 the ensemble had evolved into the Dover Concert Band, eventually earning statewide recognition for its musical excellence, colorful capes, plumed hats and appearances at the Ohio State Fair alongside the John Philip Sousa Band.

Around the same time, Newcomerstown's Manuel Yingling played with the Sousa Band.

Today, the band continues that tradition under the leadership of Brian Botdorf, Cheryl Graham and April Linard, performing marches, patriotic music, Broadway favorites, classic concert selections and standards for all ages.

“This is more than just a concert; it is a celebration of community, tradition and the power of music to bring people together,” said Michael A. Wise, executive director of ARTSNCT. “Having the Dominic Greco Band perform in Newcomerstown is truly a special event for our community. This band carries with it more than a century of musical history and excellence. We are honored to welcome them as part of our Arts for All program.

“ARTSNCT is now in its ninth year of serving our community, and events like this remind us why the arts matter so much. They create memories, friendships and experiences that stay with people for a lifetime.”

Representing both ARTSNCT and the Newcomerstown Historical Society, Barb Regula said the event is designed to feel like a true hometown gathering.

“There is something magical about an old-fashioned concert experience,” Regula said, “good food, good music, good friends and maybe even making a few new friends along the way. We invite everyone to come out, relax, enjoy the afternoon and celebrate the wonderful traditions that continue to make small-town communities so special.”

The event is made possible through local donors and supporters including a grant from the Walmart Supercenter Store #2115, New Philadelphia.

Community members are encouraged to arrive early, as a large crowd is expected.

For more information about ARTSNCT and upcoming Arts for All events, follow ARTSNCT on Facebook or contact the organization directly.