BUCKHANNON — What started as a simple send-off for two departing musicians has grown into a statewide celebration of music, as the Buckhannon Community Band prepares to host the inaugural West Virginia Community Band Festival on May 2.
The festival will take place at Buckhannon-Upshur High School and is expected to bring together 11 community bands from across the state.
According to band member BJ Hoffman, the idea began when two members relocated to Charleston for new job opportunities. During a farewell gathering, band president Sheila Zickefoose proposed finding a way to continue making music together despite the distance.
“That turned into the idea of inviting other community bands and creating something bigger,” Hoffman said.
Zickefoose led the effort to organize the event, reaching out to bands and coordinating details. Vice President Chris Loftis has overseen vendor arrangements and food truck planning, helping bring the festival together.
“It has been a process with a lot of moving parts, but it has also been really rewarding to see everyone come together,” Hoffman said. “People have contributed their time and talents in different ways to make this happen.”
Festival attendees can expect a full day of live music, with performances scheduled every 45 minutes to an hour. Craft vendors will be set up inside the school, while food trucks and concessions will be available outside.
“There will be something for everyone,” Hoffman said. “You can listen to music, walk around, meet people and enjoy food throughout the day.”
Organizers say the event reflects Buckhannon’s strong arts and culture scene and its central location within the state.
“There is a real emphasis here on music, arts and theater,” Hoffman said. “Events like this help bring people together and showcase what makes this community special.”
The Buckhannon Community Band, which welcomes musicians of all ages and skill levels, rehearses from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays at Buckhannon-Upshur Middle School.
More information about the festival, including updates and event details, can be found on the Buckhannon Community Band Facebook page and the official West Virginia Community Band Festival event page.
