Dominic Greco Band to perform free concert in Newcomerstown

The Dominic Greco Band will perform June 20 at Newcomerstown Middle School as part of ARTSNCT's Arts for All program.

The concert will begin at 1 p.m. at the school. Admission is free, although voluntary donations will be accepted to support ARTSNCT programming in Newcomerstown and the surrounding 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 free-will donation basis.

Founded more than a century ago, the Dominic Greco Band traces its roots to 1917, when 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 and later performed at the Ohio State Fair alongside the John Philip Sousa Band. Around the same time, Newcomerstown musician Manuel Yingling played with the Sousa Band.

Today, the band is led by Brian Botdorf, Cheryl Graham and April Linard and performs marches, patriotic music, Broadway selections and concert band standards.

"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," Wise said. "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."

Wise said ARTSNCT is in its ninth year of serving the community.

Representing both ARTSNCT and the Newcomerstown Historical Society, Barb Regula said the event is intended to bring community members together.

"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 traditions that continue to make small-town communities special."

The event is supported by local donors and sponsors.

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