Accolades for The Allentown Band
from Guest Conductors, Past and Present
“The Allentown Band is one of the great treasures of American music. With a history that is rich in tradition and a musical lineage that includes some of the most famous and beloved musical figures in music--one might think that the Allentown Band is a sort of musical museum. And on the surface this may be true. But the Allentown Band is so much more. It keeps alive the great traditions of the past but is also an important, relevant and vital presence in the lives of those who enjoy, study, and are committed to our American culture. I feel so lucky to be associated with Ron Demkee and the artists of the Allentown Band.”
- Loras John Schissel, Musicologist, Library of Congress
and Conductor of the Virginia Grand Military Band
“The band was splendid and responded to every gesture with great style and spirit. Trained to follow the baton in a way that would do justice to any director.” - Arthur Pryor
“I want to congratulate the citizens of Allentown for supporting Mr. Meyers. He has done a great deal to put it on the map-no other city in the country can boast of such a fine band.” - Herbert L. Clarke
“The surprise of my life - I did not expect such fine and complete instrumentation, nor to hear such a sterling performance - one of the outstanding ensembles in the country. The City of Allentown should feel proud of its achievements. Mr. Sousa and Mr. Clarke often spoke of the splendid work of the band, but could not conceive that it is as fine as it is.” - Frank Simon
“The Allentown Band is without a doubt the finest organized band in America.” - Edwin F. Goldman
“It’s always a pleasure to conduct the Allentown Band. I have toured the United States, Canada and many European countries and I have never heard a local band so good. The people of Allentown should be proud of their band.” - Giuseppe Creatore
“I have often heard that the Allentown Band is one of the finest concert bands in the country. Now I know this to be true.” - Paul LaValle
"I would not have considered my career complete, had I not conducted the Allentown Band."
- Frederick Fennell, Conductor Emeritus,
Eastman Wind Ensemble.
“I hope my own band sounds that good.”
- John Philip Sousa
“The Allentown Band is the epitome of concert bands in America. With Ron Demkee on the podium, its brilliant history continues with superb performances. It has been a highlight of my career to have conducted this magnificent band.”
- Colonel Arnald D. Gabriel, Conductor Emeritus,
United States Air Force Band
"I really enjoy conducting ensembles that not only claim an historical heritage but also possess great musical integrity. Both of these qualities are manifest in the Allentown Band."
- Colonel John R. Bourgeois, (Ret.) Conductor Emeritus,
“The President’s Own,” U.S. Marine Band
“Throughout its long history, the Marine Band roster has been replete with the names of musicians who honed their skills in the great bands of Pennsylvania, and no ensemble better exemplifies this tradition than the Allentown Band. As the conductor of the “oldest band in the land,” it was a thrill and special honor for me to guest conduct the outstanding musicians in our nation's oldest community band, and the experience is one that I will treasure always.”
- Colonel Michael Colburn, Conductor,
“The President’s Own,” U.S. Marine Band
"I express my sincere appreciation for the privilege and honor to serve as guest conductor for the outstanding Allentown Band. Their musical sensitivity reflects the excellence and leadership of this band. They are an inspiration! What a joy to stand before this distinguished group of musicians!”
- Edward S. Lisk, Conductor, Clinician, Author
"Whatever you are looking for in a community band, the historic Allentown Band has it - history, a pattern of community service, a continuing record of excellence, and outstanding leadership. The Allentown Band under Ron Demkee's baton is skillful, musical and fun to hear. Don't miss them.”
- Colonel Bryan Shelburne, (Ret.) US Army Band.
“Conducting the Famous Allentown Band is a dessert of dynamic, enthusiastic and artful musicianship...in short, pure joy. The Allentown Band and their incredible and dedicated musicians are an American Treasure!” - Captain Kenneth Force, Conductor Regimental Band of the US Merchant Marine Academy
"The world class Allentown Band continues the legacy of Sousa and his commitment to "entertain." The two greatest ensembles to continue the Legacy (in my mind) are Arthur Fiedler's Boston Pops Orchestra and the Allentown Band. One need only to attend the band's fabulously successful Ocean Grove "Sousa Concerts" to see the delight of the enormous crowds--to see how this wonderful music played by this superb band-- really touches people. What makes the Allentown Band's concerts so successful? If I could say it in words, we wouldn't need the music."
- Loras John Schissel, Musicologist, Library of Congress
and Conductor of the Virginia Grand Military Band