Now under the direction of South Christian Elementary music teacher Lori Boehman, the Pennyrile Area Community Band won’t be silenced anytime soon.
During a Tuesday visit with the Hopkinsville Rotary Club, she noted the crew — now 50-plus strong — will have two ensembles during this weekend’s Hopkinsville Juneteenth Celebration.
But the big celebration, she added, is coming the evening of July 4.
Formed in 2018 under the guidance of late director Scott Estes and the support of First Presbyterian Church members Missy and John Cherry, Boehman was also one of the original 18 band founders — which she said come in all ages and calibers of talent.
Currently, she said several teachers from the Christian County Public Schools district comprise the ranks, as well as visitors from Clarksville and Madisonville, many of them bringing students along for mentorship and skills development.
Furthermore, she laughed, and confirmed that not everyone from the band makes every practice or every performance, because it’s a “come as you can” approach.
A non-profit organization, Boehman belayed that generous gifts of cash, along with new and used instruments, has allowed for the troupe’s growth.
The band’s calendar involves a spring concert, a holiday concert and several smaller gigs — embracing a year-round experience — and she said they are always looking for new members, especially those with unique talents.
A Hopkinsville native, Boehman is an arts advocate, and from 2003-09 was the band director for Christian County High School.
In other Hopkinsville Rotary news:
— President Brandon Killebrew said “Rotary Night with the Hoptown Hoppers” is on the horizon.
Killebrew’s tenure ends this month, with Vice President and former auction chair Kelly Gates next in line.
