Morris Plains Community Band
This organization operates in the Borough of Morris Plains but is not affiliated with the Borough government.
Purpose
Re-established in 2015 after a lapse of 62 years, the Morris Plains Community Band is a volunteer fun band in the wind ensemble format. Our instrumentation is woodwinds, brasswinds and percussion. Our music is on an intermediate level and our members range in age from 12 to 87. We play traditional American band music – patriotic songs, marches, holiday selections, Broadway & Hollywood tunes and light classical music.
We consider our band to be the modern extension of the Morris Plains Cornet Band, which was founded by blacksmith Larry Monahan in 1888. Monahan led the band without interruption for 52 years until his death in 1940. After his death, the band was renamed the “L. Monahan Memorial Band” and continued until it finally disbanded in 1953.
Our mission is to provide an opportunity for people to enjoy playing music, and to perform our music for those who would enjoy it.
Performances
We perform concerts on a regular basis for nursing homes, assisted-living facilities and senior residences. We also play concerts “In the Park” in Morris Plains and other communities throughout the warm weather, as well as for fairs and festivals in the area.
We are a member of the North Jersey Association of Community Bands, and join with other similar groups at band festivals around the region.
Membership
New members are always welcome. Please email larryripley@verizon.net or call 973-998-1081 with any inquiries. There is no audition, no commitment and no cost. We have 75 regular members. Musicians should be able to play music of a middle school level. Some of our repertoire is more difficult, and we provide easier parts when necessary.
Rehearsals
The Morris Plains Community Band meets every Wednesday evening year-round from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Morris Plains Community Center, 51 Jim Fear Drive, Morris Plains. Attendance at rehearsals, as well as performances, is up to the individual member. Some attend our rehearsals every week, others make it a few times a year, and everything in between. All are welcome however it fits your life.
Conductor
The Morris Plains Community Band is conducted by Larry Ripley, a retired musician and bandleader who is the third member of his family to lead a town band.