Photo: Chris Kalwa and Jim LeBon (Photo by: D. Carttar)
Stuart Community Concert Band Welcomes New Director
The Stuart Community Concert Band begins its 101st season with a new director at its helm. After six years directing the Band, Chris Kalwa is turning his baton over to Jim LeBon.
“Being a part of the Stuart Community Concert Band has been one of the highlights of my music career, said Kalwa, band director at Stuart Middle School and assistant director at Jensen Beach High School. “But now I’m looking forward to my new job as a father.” Chris and his wife Keloryn are expecting their first child in August. “If time permits in the future, I’d enjoy playing music with this talented group of musicians.”
LeBon is the band director at Southport Middle School and has a Master’s degree in Music Education. He and his wife started Emperor Music Press in 2004 to provide quality solo and ensemble music for younger musicians. When LeBon has spare time, he plays clarinet and bass clarinet with the Port St. Lucie Community Band and the Stuart Community Concert Band and is currently playing baritone sax with the Ambassadors of Swing. He also plays bass clarinet with the Treasure Coast Wind Ensemble in Vero Beach every June.
“Band is a unique activity that I have enjoyed for over forty years, and I look forward every day to making music,” LeBon told the Stuart Community Concert band members. “I am proud to direct the Stuart Community Concert Band.”
The Band’s members are volunteers who get together to share their talents, enthusiasm and love for music. From eighteen members in 1914 to over seventy-five members today, the Stuart Community Concert Band has provided music for the residents of the Treasure Coast for over 100 years. The Band performs for many holiday and community celebrations including a performance during the upcoming 4th of July festivities in Flagler Park at 3:00 p.m.
Band rehearsals take place on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the North Stuart Baptist Church, 1950 NW Federal Highway (Second Floor in the Education Building) in Stuart. The Band welcomes new members. Come join the fun! Go to www.stuartcommunityconcertband.org for more information.
