Des Plaines Community Concert Band Under New Leadership to Perform at Live at the Lake

The Des Plaines Park District named Dr. Al Legutki as the new conductor for the Des Plaines Community Concert Band. This isn't Dr. Legutki's first time conducting the Des Plaines band; he filled the spot last March while the Park District was searching for a replacement. I enjoy leading this group of dedicated musicians," said Legutki. "I'm excited to take on this challenge and look forward to creating some great music with and for this community," he added. Dr. Legutki's first performance as conductor will be at the annual summer concert series, Live at the Lake, held at Lake Park Memorial Pavilion on July 2 at 7:00p.

Al Legutki, currently serves as Assistant Professor of Music Education at Benedictine University in Lisle, IL, where he teaches courses in music, music education, and the humanities. Previously, he taught music education courses at the University of Illinois, and taught middle and high school band in Sullivan School District 300. Al has also enjoyed roles as church choir director, community band director, and as a proud member of the trumpet section in several community bands, including those in Wheaton, Normal, Champaign, St. Joseph, Danville, Evanston, and Des Plaines. He is a graduate of Illinois State University (B.M.E. and M.M.E.) and the University of Illinois (Ph.D.). His wife, Melissa, is also a trumpet player and music educator, who teaches at Algonquin Middle School in Des Plaines.

The DPCCB will Kick off the popular summer concert series with selections from the band's wide repertoire of classics, popular hits and movie scores. Live at the Lake is sponsored by the Des Plaines Arts Council and is offering free shows every Thursday evening in July at the Lake Park Memorial Pavilion located at 2200 Lee Street, (at Fargo Avenue).

For more information, visit www.DPParks.org or call 847-391-5711.