Brian Howell attracts fans while tuning his mellophone before a Citrus Heights Marching Band set.

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Scores of musicians swung tough in 104 degrees Fahrenheit during the first day of the recent Community Band Festival in Carmichael Park. 

While many area residents stayed home with ACs blasting. Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Association stalwarts sweated bravely through the Saturday, May 31 sets. Marches, jazz, pop tunes, polkas and anthems filled the sultry air. Many gallons of water were slurped between measures.

Director Kody Tichner (with tuba) marshals Citrus Height Community Marching Band members before the 60-piece ensemble’s Sunday performance.

Temperatures were mercifully cooler for the second day of concerts. Audiences crept out of the woodwork to applaud woodwind, brass and percussion players.

“On Saturday (May 31), Sacramento Symphonic Winds were performing at 4 p.m. when it hit 104 degrees. I announced that they’d broken the temperature record for the festival and they all cheered. Later on, the Fred Morgan Big Band played some really hot jazz. Our musicians are not just dedicated; they’re tough.”

The festival has been a Carmichael Park staple for 31 years. This year, the event spotlighted 17 bands and more than 600 volunteer musicians.

A dramatic percussion crash is directed by Sacramento Concert band leader and festival organizer Grant Parker.

Performers typically range in age from pre-teen to a nonagenarian. The oldest participant this year was Bill Parker, who fortifies the Sacramento Concert Band’s trumpet section. His son, Grant Parker (also a trumpeter), directs the band.

The 2025 meetup included Roseville, Elk Grove, Carmichael, Citrus Heights and Rancho Cordova ensembles. Musicians also represented, Yolo County, Solano County, Amador County and the Bay Area. Sacramento Concert Band, the Capital City Concert band and the American River College Symphonic Band began the tradition in 1991.

Carmichael Park District’s concert season continues this Saturday with the Fast Times rock band taking center stage. Concert kickoff is at 6 p.m. Food trucks will supply refreshments and dancing is encouraged.

Big guns with the Salvation Army Del Oro Brass are tuba players Doug Masden (left) Derek Strickland, Bram Moulton and Craig Helms.

Remaining Carmichael Park District performances are scheduled as follows.

Fast Times will be on June 14.

Groove Thang will be on June 21.

Todd Morgan and the Emblems will be on June 28.