Wayne County Historical Society Summer Community Band returning for 2026 season

The Wayne County Historical Society Summer Community Band is preparing for another season of concerts in Wooster, continuing a tradition inspired by community bands that were common more than a century ago.

Sponsored by an anonymous donor through the Wayne County Historical Society, the band recalls groups such as Wooster’s former Board of Trade Band, which performed concerts at the old bandstand in front of what is now E&H Hardware.

The band will perform under the direction of Randy Claes of Wooster. The main concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 16 in downtown Wooster’s Northeast Quadrant, east of the courthouse. Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for the outdoor performance. Organizers hope to secure an indoor location if weather prevents the concert from being held outside.

The group also plans to perform during Wooster Rotary’s America 250 event at 2 p.m. July 5 in downtown Wooster.

Rehearsals will begin at 7 p.m. May 20 in the recital hall at the College of Wooster’s Scheide Music Center. Practices will continue Wednesday evenings through July 15. Organizers expressed appreciation to Dr. Jeff Gershman and The College of Wooster for supporting the program.

The Summer Community Band is open to anyone who plays a band instrument, including percussion, regardless of age or experience level. Past participants have ranged in age from 13 to 94. The band’s repertoire will include marches, show tunes, patriotic selections and other familiar music.

For more information, contact Claes at randyclaes@gmail.com or Jerry Payn, band assistant, at gmpayn@gmail.com.