“It’s a blessing to have a creative outlet,” says Repasz Band assistant bandleader Theo Lentz of his return to the ensemble after a long hiatus.
As the famed Williamsport band prepare for their May 24 concert at the Community Arts Center, Lentz’s return is just one of many changes for the 191-year-old band.
The past two years have seen a few concerts canceled by COVID, as well as virus-restricted rehearsals that have made it difficult to stay musically fit; but the Repasz Band is now back to regular weekly practice. In the meantime, the group gained several new members, as well as a new home at the Olivewood complex in Montgomery.
After a holiday concert in December 2021, this upcoming show completes Repasz’s return to its annual pair of regularly scheduled CAC concerts over the spring and Christmas. The May 24 program features marches, classics, film music, a tribute to Ukraine, a narration by the mayor of Williamsport and two plays by a Mansfield University graduate.
“The Ukrainian national anthem and ‘Kyiv 2022’ are our musical tribute to the heroic people of Ukraine,” said Repasz conductor Jeff Dent. “The Kyiv piece is a brand new composition by Brian Balmages; not only does this pay tribute to these brave men and women, but also, all funds from the sale of his work support their efforts.
Lentz, meanwhile, will conduct Sousa’s march “Gallant Seventh” and a medley by film composer Jerry Goldsmith, covering scores for “Air Force One,” “Rudy,” “First Knight” and “Star Trek: The Motion.” Picture,” which became the theme for popular “Next Generation” television.
“I really enjoy Goldsmith’s mix because it showcases great, influential music on TV and in film,” said Lentz, who previously co-hosted two Repasz shows at CAC before taking a job 120 miles away. the.
“In 2018, I resigned to take the position of assistant director of sports bands at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania,” Lentz said. “I wish I could have kept both roles, but the 2 hour drive one way would have been difficult. After a rewarding year of working with SFU students, I returned home for personal reasons.
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