The Clearwater Community Band was formed by Eddie Edwards in 1955 with their first performance in 1956. The band was formed as a possible solution to a problem that nags all music educators, and that is what to do about continued participation in music after students graduate from their high school or college.

In 1955, several parents of graduated instrumental students felt a need to start using those wonderful instruments once again. This reflected a "movement" occurring across the country as "retired" instrumentalists surprisingly became active again making music and filling a "void" felt by them and their audiences.

According to Carleton L. Weidemeyer in his history of the Musician's Association Local 729, "The band became an accomplished group. Four members in the 1970's had formerly performed with John Philip Sousa. Col. Melvin Maccoul once directed the the U.S. Army Band during the Wilson Administration".

 

Today our Clearwater Community Bands include the Jazz Band, Concert Band and our Small Ensembles. All are part of the Lifelong Learning Program offered by St. Petersburg College.

 

The Clearwater Community Band, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation registered in The State of Florida and is certified as a 501(c)(3) organization.