50 years of music, community, and volunteer spirit in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The St. Petersburg Community Band was founded on January 15, 1975, when Joe Berkowitz and St. Petersburg High School band director Paul Nicholson brought together a group of local musicians, initially using the high school’s facilities.
After Nicholson stepped down, leadership passed to Dr. George Westcott, formerly of Eastern Illinois University, who conducted the group for a decade. Dr. Westcott gave up conducting and Don MacTavish, director of the Festival of States took over the baton for six years. Mr. Don MacTavish was transferred to Orlando in 1994 and Rob Romeyn became the director. Rob who is a writer and arranger directed the Band until 2013, with one year off to get his Master’s Degree. Larry Patterson directed during the interim.
In 2013 after directing the band for approximately 18 years, Rob wanted to devote more time to his writing and arranging and he turned the baton over to Dr. John Bannon, Principal Timpanist of The Florida Orchestra. Dr. Bannon continues to direct the band assisted by Mrs. Deborah Forringer who is a retired Band Director and Music Teacher.The band has grown from that modest beginning into a vibrant nonprofit ensemble of more than 90 volunteer performers. Today, we represent musicians of all ages, backgrounds, training levels, and cultural backgrounds — united by a love of music and a commitment to our community.
Joe Berkowitz and Paul Nicholson gather local musicians at St. Petersburg High School with Nicholson directing.
1976 Dr. George Westcott leads the band, establishing its reputation for community performance.
In 1988 Don MacTavish, director of the Festival of States took over the baton for six years.
Band expands its community reach — Special Olympics, VA Hospital, and retirement communities.
1994 Rob Romeyn, a writer and arranger, became the director.
Become a beloved opener for The Florida Orchestra’s annual Pops in the Park event.
2013 Dr. John Bannon becomes the director.
Celebrating five decades of free concerts, community service, and musical excellence.
“The St. Petersburg Community Band is dedicated to enriching lives through the power of music — fostering community, creativity, and cultural appreciation.”
10-15 concerts per year, all free to the public.
Musicians of all skill levels and backgrounds are welcome.
Outreach to veterans, youth, and seniors across Pinellas County.
50+ years of preserving the community band tradition.
From Sousa marches to jazz standards, our diverse repertoire has something for everyone. We celebrate the full breadth of band music with performances that delight audiences of all ages.
We perform traditional concert band literature alongside popular favorites, seasonal programs, patriotic pieces, and everything in between.