The Memorial Concert Band of Colonie is based in the Town of Colonie, which is located in the Capital District (Albany area) of New York State, The region has a rich tradition of summer community bands dating back more than 100 years but limited community band presence during the remainder of the year. The Memorial Band was founded in the Fall of 1999, through the efforts of trumpet player Robert J. Ullery, to remedy this situation and to provide a performance outlet for accomplished musicians living in the region. Sponsorship, since the group’s inception, has been through the Town of Colonie, Department of Parks and Recreation and the Colonie Central School District, which provides rehearsal and performance venues. The “Memorial” part of the band’s name serves as a living tribute to deceased South Colonie Music Department administrators and educators, as well as to Memorial Band members.
The Memorial Band is comprised of 70 - 80 members from across the Capital District and beyond. Our community band is dedicated to bringing the best in concert band music to the public though the performance of four concerts per year. The home stage for the band is the Mark Cornell Auditorium at Colonie High School, but the band has also performed at other regional venues as well as two Association of Concert Bands national conventions. Auditions are not normally required for membership, but a recommendation from a current member, submission of a resume of musical experience, and/or conductor approval is used to perpetuate the high level of musicianship.
