About Us

The Evansville Symphonic Band Mission

The Evansville Symphonic Band is committed to continuing the tradition of free band concerts, to foster music and the arts, and to attract new audiences in our community.

Through the presentation of the best in band literature, the band will strive to increase public awareness and appreciation for live performances. Opportunities will be provided for young musicians to observe, hear, and perform with a professional band. The band will combine with other arts organizations to enrich and further its mission. The band will continue to provide employment and performance opportunities for local musicians and engage them in programs of high artistic quality.

Historical Highlights 1947 to the Present

Summer of 1947

Wesley Shepard presented the first Tri-State Concert Band outdoor concert on the front lawn of the Evansville College Administration Building, July 10, 1947 at 7:30 p.m.

1949

The band concerts were moved to Bosse Field. The Mesker Musical Trust began financially supporting the band.

Early 1950s

Concerts were moved to the Mesker Amphitheater upon its completion.

1970s

The band continued to function under the leadership of several different conductors after Mr. Shepard’s retirement in 1970, until the late ’70s.

Early 1980s

James Chandler reorganized the band under its current name, The Evansville Symphonic Band.

1991 – 1997

John K. Koehler was appointed Conductor in 1991 and served until 1997.

1998

Kim Fillingim was appointed Conductor of the Band.

2000

The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Coliseum became the new location for the band’s June concert series.

Early 2000s

In addition to its series of concerts, the band has played for the dedication of the Roberts Stadium renovation; the dedication of the Korean War Veterans Memorial; the dedication of the Visitors and Convention Center Pagoda in Sunset Park; and the World War II memorabilia display at Casino Aztar.

2007

Mr. Fillingim retired as director of the band after the 2007 concert season.

2008

Dr. Timothy Zifer was appointed as the new director, and the band held the first Big Band Bash – a fundraiser for the organization.

2009

The launch of the Evansville Symphonic Band website allowed fans to keep up with the band all year.

2014

Mr. Kim Fillingim returned as director. The concerts are being held at Central H.S. Auditorium with near capacity attendance.

Board of Directors

Jim Moore (Board President) – Retired Music Teacher
Kim Fillingim (Conductor/Music Director) – EVSC Music Instructor/Administrator
Jennifer Wuchner (Business Manager) – Office Manager with Habitat for Humanity of Evansville and Bookkeeper with Old North United Methodist Church
Krista Hogan (Board Secretary) – Music Teacher
Dr. Edwin Lacy – Emeritus Professor of Music with the University of Evansville
Richard Bernhardt (Member) – Retired Music Educator/ H&H Music Service
John Wittenbraker (Member) – Retired Music Educator/Administrator
Danny Humphries (Member) – Retired Music Educator
Kristie Kirsch (Member) – Broker/Owner, Solid Gold Realty
Rita Roth (Member) – Retired Musician
Larry Eifler (Member) – Retired Music Teacher
Candace Adye (Member) – Professional Pianist, Administrator with Health Organization
Jonathan Hogan (Media Specialist) – Professional Musician and Woodwind Studio Instructor

Band Members

Members of the band include professional musicians, educators, and others not in the field of music but who maintain a high level of performance on their instrument. The members of the Band are selected annually based on prior-years’ experience and professional status.