DAVENPORT IOWA (September 11, 2019) — The River Music Experience (RME) is proud to announce two new programs: The KIX Orchestra and RME Community Youth Band. As part of its mission to support and grow the local music community, the RME is taking these programs under its wing in order to ensure their future.
"Music changes lives," says RME Executive Director Tyson Danner. "These two programs are shining examples of the power of music. One offers a chance for students to explore music in a group setting, and the other offers all members of our community the opportunity to perform and appreciate an often-overlooked American music genre."
RME Community Youth Band:
The RME Community Youth Band is concert band for students that may not have the opportunity to participate in coordinated music programs. Local music teacher Phyllis Miller originally organized the group in 2005. Since her retirement in 2018, the group has not had a director or rehearsal space. Local music teacher Adrienne Varble will act as the group's director. The band will rehearse weekly in RME's performance hall.
Traditionally, only home-schooled and private-school students have participated. RME is inviting all students that currently play to participate. This fall, the group is open to all students who have already had some instrumental instruction. The RME hopes to add a beginner-level band this spring, which will be open to younger and first-time players.
RME's Let's Band Together instrument loan program will support the youth band by offering free use of instruments to students in need.
Fall Schedule: Every Wednesday from 5:15-6:30PM First rehearsal and parents' meeting: October 2 at 5:15PM
Participation Fee: $25 per month per family — due at rehearsal, not registration
Program registration is available at www.rivermusicexperience.org. Advanced registration is encouraged, but students and families are welcome to attend the first rehearsal without advanced registration.
The KIX Orchestra
The KIX Orchestra, directed by Steve Little, plays music from the Big Band era, focusing on arrangements from the 1930's though the 1980's. Originally founded in 1991, the group has had several rehearsal locations, including the RME's former Community Stage. Now, the band will have a permanent home. Participation is free and open to all musicians, no matter their age or ability level.
2019-2020 Schedule: 3rd Tuesday of every month from 7-9PM
First Rehearsal: October 16
No pre-registration is necessary.
In addition, fans of Big Band are welcome to come listen in or to dance along to the music. RME plans to offer periodic Redstone Room Big Band dance parties accompanied by the KIX Orchestra.
"One of our top priorities is to support the whole QC music scene," says Danner. "Bands like these strengthen our music community, and a strong music community makes the Quad Cities a better place to live, work, and play. By offering these programs, we are making sure every Quad Citizen has access to all kinds of music. We are pleased to step in and provide support for these important community efforts."
This announcement comes during the RME's Fall Back-to-School fundraising campaign, seeking to raise $25,000 to support educational and community-based programming. This year, the RME expects to reach nearly 40,000 community members with educational and concert programming.
Donations can be made at rivermusicexperience.org/donate.
About River Music Experience
River Music Experience is a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives in the Quad Cities by providing opportunities to listen, learn, and play music.
