Erie's community band—where music, heart, and hometown pride come together.
Help keep the music alive!
It's quick, easy, and secure—just use your credit or debit card via PayPal to make a tax-deductable donation. You’ll be redirected to PayPal for a safe transaction, and you can print a receipt for your tax records at the end. Thank you for supporting local music and the musicians who make it possible!
First Rehearsals of 2026:
Gem City Jazz Ensemble - January 13 at 6:15 p.m.
Gem City Concert Band - January 27 at 8:00 p.m.
Flagship Steel Band - January 26
Gem City Bands, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a proud nonprofit community music organization made up of more than 100 dedicated amateur and semi-professional musicians. Together, we share one mission: to create meaningful musical experiences and bring great performances to audiences across the region.
A Place for Passionate Musicians
We’re an all-volunteer ensemble, and membership is open to experienced musicians in Erie and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re recently retired, a lifelong player looking to reconnect, or a younger musician eager for more performance opportunities, Gem City Bands offers a welcoming and rewarding musical home.
We rehearse weekly and perform throughout the year at a variety of community events, concert venues, and special programs.
Our Music
Our diverse programming has something for everyone. Depending on the ensemble, our repertoire includes:
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Symphonic overtures and traditional concert band works
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Jazz, big band, and swing favorites
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Broadway tunes and movie themes
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Patriotic selections and classic marches
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Folk melodies from around the world
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Steel drum music in styles such as Calypso, Soca, Pop, Latin, and even Classical
Get Involved
Whether you’re here to...
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Join one of our ensembles
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Book a performance for your event
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Attend an upcoming concert
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Or simply learn more about who we are
…we invite you to explore the site and discover how you can be part of the music.