The Venice Concert Band was initially organized and directed by Leo Partch in 1988 at which time the Band consisted of some 35 musicians and performed primarily at local mobile home parks and at the gazebo in downtown Centennial Park. Rehearsals were held at Grace United Methodist Church and later at Venice City Hall.
In 1994 Leo Partch retired and Jimmy Dean became the Director, followed by Bill Millner in 1996. A grant by the Venice Foundation funded the purchase of many percussion instruments, band shirts and caps. As the Band’s popularity grew, a larger venue was needed. In 1998 the Venice Community Center became the Band’s home concert venue seating 1000 people. A renovation of the Center in 2005 resulted in a wider stage and a large backstage area for the storage of percussion instruments, music stands, and a music folder cabinet. The Band moved to the new Venice Performing Arts Center for the 2014-2015 concert season. Bill Millner retired as Director in April 2016 and Bob Miller took over the baton.
The all-volunteer band has improved dramatically over the years and currently numbers some 75 outstanding musicians during “the season”.
The backgrounds of the band members are varied and include both amateur and professional musicians, and many former and current music teachers and band directors. Audiences at the 6 annual concerts range between 850 and 1000 enthusiastic, supportive people.
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