Voice of Wheaton Municipal Band celebrates 30 years

The Wheaton Municipal Band concert at 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4 honors front man and announcer Pete Friedmann.

For 30 years, Pete Friedmann has been the voice of the Wheaton Municipal Band, sharing his clever humor, witty ad-libs, and well researched information. The band and the audience love him. Normally, director Bruce Moss programs concert music; however, as a gift to Pete and to thank him for his 30 years of service, Pete has selected the music for the evening's concert. This week's program promises to be something very special.

"I don't want to give away any secrets," said Friedmann. "I would like to keep it discrete." He wants to keep his audience guessing. Pete loves his audience, as the audience loves him. "I cannot say enough about our audience," said Friedmann. "They are loyal, supportive, attentive and knowledgeable. They give the concert experience a sense of community." Pete has something special up his sleeve for the evening's concert. What is planned? All of Pete's favorites. There is a march, of course. But which one? Then there is an original composition commissioned by the band a few years ago. Hint: It was written by a composer/arranger who is now with the "President's Own Band."

Pete is a lover of musicals and a supporter of the arts. So, of course, there is a Broadway Musical Medley, but from a famous show that is not often heard. In addition, over the years, Pete has narrated many works for band and actor/narrator. The one Pete selected for this concert will thrill young and old alike. (That's all I can say). The highlight of the evening is soloist, Pete Wilson, on violin. The Washington Post called Wilson's playing, "First-class."

"I specifically requested White House violinist Peter Wilson, who I've wanted to invite for many years. I've known Peter since he was a student at Northwestern," said Friedmann. "He is an amazing violinist. I admire his work with the "President's Own Band." "Many people are surprised to learn that the Marine Band has string instruments. I can think of only one other time we had a violinist as a guest artist." Dr. Wilson is in great demand for his virtuosic skills from classical to jazz, to folk and pop/rock. He has appeared with many famous artists including Ray Charles, Beyonce, Josh Groben, Whitney Houston, The National Symphony Orchestra and the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra.

The Wheaton Municipal Band Concerts would not be complete without the wealth of information Pete shares with the audience each week. "I have several resource books and over 29 years of program notes," said Friedmann. "I never thought I would be doing this for 30 years. I tried to fill my predecessor's shoes (Dick Noble)." One of the things that make Pete so wonderful is his antics with Director Bruce Moss. "I cannot imagine having a better working relationship and personal friendship than I do with our music director, " said Friedmann.

Don't miss this exciting concert. The park fills up quickly, so come early and grab a spot. Thursday, August 4 at 8:00 p.m. in Memorial Park.