Then & Now: What Your Support Has Built

Over the last few weeks, we’ve taken you behind the scenes—into our trailer, rehearsal spaces, and Music Library. If you’ve been part of the Jackson Hole Community Band for any length of time, you’ve seen firsthand how far we’ve come. And if you’re just getting to know us—welcome.

The truth is, none of this growth happened overnight. And none of it happened alone.

Crescendo: From First Rehearsal to Full Sound

The Jackson Hole Community Band didn’t start in a basement—it started with a vision and a brass quintet.

In the mid-1980s, a small group of local musicians began playing together for fun and for the occasional community event. Theater productions came and went, but they dreamed of something more lasting: a year-round Ensemble that could bring people together and serve the community through music.

That dream found its footing during the Wyoming Centennial celebration in 1990. With a bit of start-up funding, the group bought its first music, secured rehearsal space, and took part in Centennial activities. What began as a handful of players quickly grew into a full concert band—and later, several spin-off ensembles. Today, we perform nearly two dozen times each year across the valley.

Thanks to steady community support, we’ve grown not just in size, but in sound. We’ve upgraded our Percussion section, added a trailer to keep us parade-ready, and curated and digitized a Music Library of more than 1,300 pieces. Even our look has evolved—with coordinated logo wear and stage presence that reflects the pride we feel. And we found a home at The Center for the Arts, giving our rehearsals consistency and our sound a place to thrive.

From those early days to our most recent concert, your support has helped every step of the way.

Old Bills Keeps the Music Alive

It takes more than rehearsals and concert dates to keep a community band running. Our annual expenses cover everything from venue rentals and music purchases to instrument repairs, uniforms, insurance, and even trailer maintenance.

Most seasons, our budget runs between $20,000 and $25,000. Thanks to an incredible team of volunteers, we stretch every dollar—but donations make the difference between “just getting by” and “doing it right.”

And like everything else these days, the costs go up a little every year. That’s why support from Old Bills is more important than ever. With thoughtful planning, smart reuse, and your generosity, we’re able to keep growing without cutting corners.

Join Us in the Final Stretch

If you’ve ever tapped your toes at one of our concerts, brought the kids to the Town Square Lighting, or smiled as we passed by in a parade—thank you. That moment was possible because people like you stepped up.

Now, as Old Bills is in its final week, we’re asking for one more note of support. Every donation helps us keep the music flowing—from library additions and gear repairs to rehearsal space and performances that bring joy to our whole community.