Erie's community band—where music, heart, and hometown pride come together.
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A Familiar Face Returns: Jim Caspar to Lead Gem City Jazz Ensemble
The Gem City Jazz Ensemble is excited to announce the return of Jim Caspar as its director. Caspar, who previously led the band from 2010 to 2019, brings decades of experience as an educator, performer, and conductor. He succeeds Dr. Joel Hunt, who recently stepped down after more than five years of service. Caspar will work alongside Assistant Director Logan Carnes to guide the ensemble into its next chapter. Read the full press release, and help us welcome Jim back to the Gem City family!
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.