Summer is fading and I always feel a renewed energy as fall approaches. It is one of my favorite times of the year. This is especially so as a new season of music making begins with the Plano Community Band. As I reflect on the incredibly wonderful time I have conducting this outstanding group of musicians, I can’t help but feel excited in anticipation of the upcoming musical literature, rehearsals and performances.

Last year’s “Music for Life” outreach to young musicians of the Plano School District proved to be highly successful. It has motivated a performance plan for our upcoming concert at the Eisemann Center that will incorporate the same principles. Students from Plano East Senior High School will be included in several of the pieces on this concert, entitled “A Little Help From Our Friends”. Jim Carter has even moved our “Beatles inspired” title a step further by including a Beatles medley in his portion of the concert. This collaboration with young musicians should make for a rewarding and exciting experience. I think as you get to know and understand the music we have programmed, you will be inspired, excited and challenged by the artistry, energy and entertainment we hope to bring to the Eisemann concert.

The Plano Community Band is always moving forward. The group has been very receptive to new concepts in programming and performance and has continually improved in terms of musical quality and expression. This growth has not gone unnoticed by audiences and musicians in our area. Our concert attendance is healthy and we continue to have frequent applications to be part of the band.

I really look forward to the challenges and opportunities the band constantly provides for my own improvement as a conductor and musician and I hope each of you are aware of the rewards of bringing your talent and best efforts in preparation to each rehearsal. Lets all work together toward the goal of making great music together.

It is my sincere privilege to be a continuing part of the wonderful things happening with the Plano Community Band.

Joe Frank