ABOVE: Directed by Jonathan Shrum, the Trimont Centennial band performs one of many songs on Monday evening at the Red Rock Center for the Arts in Fairmont. The next performance will be at the Sundaes in the Park event at 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, at the Triumph Memorial Park in Trimont.

FAIRMONT — It’s time to tune in. The Trimont Centennial Band’s season is in full swing. It offers Martin County residents plentiful opportunities to watch live music while also inviting them to join the family of passionate musicians.

“We’ve grown steadily,” Band Member and Clarinet Player Nancy Gunther said.

She has 15 years of Trimont Centennial Band membership under her belt.

“We play for the love of music,” Gunther said.

The band was founded in 1999 by Maynard Nelson. The ever-growing band began performing in 2000, hence the ‘centennial’ title, and seeks to touch the hearts and inspire Martin County residents through its passionate and diverse group of individuals, and to celebrate the art of music in multiple Martin County locations.

“We’re here to make music and have fun,” said Director Jonathan Shrum. Shrum is a multi-instrumentalist and plays six instruments: pipe organ, bassoon, trumpet, Irish whistle, saxophone, clarinet and piano, but explained he specializes in the latter three. Shrum has been in the band since 2017 and was officially named director this season.

Currently, there are 30 members in the band, ranging from 15 to 78 years old. Members are from Fairmont, Trimont, Sherburn, Welcome, Ceylon, Blue Earth, Winnebago and Swea City, Iowa. According to Gunther, many band members are alumni of high school or college band, and later returned.

“Many people here have also played for many years,” Gunther stated.

The Trimont Centennial Band has three seasons. The spring season begins rehearsal at the end of March and concludes in June, which includes a Memorial Day program and Sundaes in the Park performances, both in Trimont. The parade season includes playing on a float in area festival parades in Fairmont, Sherburn, Trimont, Welcome and Truman. The Christmas season continues until December. After the final performance, rehearsal and performances will resume in March for the next spring season.

Shrum and Peterson mutually agreed that there is a strong familial bond between each musician. The entertainment that stemmed from each rehearsal and performance is what drives many members to keep playing, for both themselves and the community.

“It’s fun and a great opportunity. Even if we aren’t able to do events, it’s nice to get together and play,” Shrum expressed.

As director, Shrum stated that he’s committed to creating a safe, entertaining space for all band members to happily make and celebrate music. In addition, Gunther explained she would like to see the band grow and thrive. Shrum added that there is no pressure on the technical side of music; everyone’s enjoyment is a priority.

“If you goof up, it’s okay, everyone does,” said Long-time Band Member of 26 years and Baritone Player, Dennis Peterson.

The next Trimont Centennial Band will help honor the 26th year of Sundaes in the Park and will perform at 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, at Triumph Memorial Park in Trimont.

The Trimont Centennial Band is seeking and accepting new band members. There are no tryouts or auditions. Everyone is welcome to join. If interested in Trimont Centennial Band membership or additional information, contact Band Members Brad Carlson at BradC323@gmail.com, Melanie Pope at Liddyp65@icloud.com, or any current band member.