Bemidji Area Community Band: And the Band Plays On

Join us on Thursday, July 18, at noon at the Beltrami County History Center, located at 130 Minnesota Ave. SW in downtown Bemidji, for a special program on the foundations of band music in Bemidji. The Beltrami County Historical Society is thrilled to welcome author Joy Riggs and members of the Bemidji Area Concert Band for this enriching event.

In her presentation, Joy Riggs will delve into the musical contributions her great-grandparents made to Bemidji’s civic and cultural life in the early 1920s, including the organization of the Bemidji Boys’ Band. She will also read excerpts from her nonfiction book, “Crackerjack Bands and Hometown Boosters,” which explores the life and career of her great-grandfather, G. Oliver Riggs. Riggs was a pioneer in the development of Minnesota’s band music programs. Following a family tragedy in Crookston, he moved to Bemidji in 1919 with his wife, Islea, who was an accomplished piano soloist and accompanist.

Joy Riggs grew up in Alexandria, Minnesota, and graduated from Drake University in Des Moines with a bachelor’s degree in news-editorial journalism. She spent several years as a newspaper reporter before becoming a freelance writer and editor. In 2006, she embarked on a project helping her dad research his paternal grandfather’s career as a longtime band director in St. Cloud. Over a decade later, that project culminated in her book.

Adding to the celebration, members of the Bemidji Area Community Band, which has been in operation for over 50 years, will play excerpts from band concerts conducted by G. Oliver Riggs in Bemidji. This event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with Bemidji’s rich musical heritage and enjoy live performances that reflect the community’s ongoing dedication to band music.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about and celebrate the vibrant history of band music in Bemidji. We look forward to seeing you there!