Saginaw Eddy Band Celebrate 100th Anniversary with Special July 12th Performance

The Saginaw Eddy Concert Band is one of Michigan's oldest and most enduring community musical organizations. Its roots date back to 1927, when Arthur Amsden organized a municipal band to perform at civic events, parades, and concerts throughout Saginaw.

The ensemble quickly became a popular fixture in the community, offering free performances that brought residents together during the summer months. Although Amsden passed away after the band's first season, he established a tradition that has continued for a century.

The band's future was secured through the generosity of the Eddy family. William Mertins, a trombonist in the band and close friend of Arthur D. Eddy, persuaded Eddy to dedicate a portion of the C. K. Eddy Family Memorial Trust to permanently support the ensemble.

That endowment ensured that generations of Saginaw residents could continue to enjoy free public concerts. Under the leadership of German-born conductor Charles Mann, who assumed the podium in 1928, the ensemble evolved from a municipal marching band into a true concert band, adopting the name Saginaw Eddy Concert Band.

Over the decades, the “Eddy Band” has become a cherished summer tradition in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Made up primarily of talented local musicians, including many music educators, the band presents a diverse repertoire in weekly free Summertime concerts that range from traditional concert band classics and patriotic marches to Broadway favorites, film music, jazz, and contemporary works. Its family-friendly shows have introduced countless young listeners to live concert band music while providing entertainment for audiences of all ages.

2026 is a big year for the organization as it celebrates its 100th season with special events.  It is also the first year for new Conductor Dr. Norma Wika, the twelfth person to hold the baton for the band.

Wika is also the Director of Bands for Saginaw Valley State University.  His history with the Eddy Band began after he moved to the area in 2016.  Initially serving as a sub in the trombone section, he became a full-time member in 2018. 

As previous Conductor Joe Radtke had a regular annual obligation with the Baroque On Beaver Festival on Beaver Island, Wika started serving as a substitute in his absence.  He took over the job full time this year and he is extremely grateful for the opportunity to add his name to the list of distinguished conductors who have held the role over the years.

In an interview for this piece Wika indicated they are “really leaning into” the anniversary theme this year.  This includes cooperation from local partners, such as the Castle Museum, which has an Eddy Band display this Summer.

This season will also include guest appearances by notable alumni from the group, including former Emcees Art Lewis and Judy Wagley.

July 12th will serve as the official Anniversary Concert for the Eddy Band.  It will be highlighted by the debut of an original work by composer/violinist Nathan Bieber, “And Many More.” An area native now based out of Nashville, Bieber is the son of composer Catherine McMichael and violinist Rod Bieber. 

“… And Many More” is a celebratory work which includes references to the melody of “America The Beautiful.”  Unlike pop music, where songwriters are defensive of every note or phrase in their songs, classical composers often pay homage to other well-known composers and works.  It is a sign of respect and reverence.  This is a perfect theme for a piece debuting during the 100th anniversary of the band and the 250th birthday of our nation.  As a bonus, Joe Radtke will return to direct the band for this piece.

The Eddy band performs weekly on Sunday evenings at the Jolt Credit Union Event Park, across the Dow Event Center (which serves as a backup venue in the event of rain).  Performances begin at 7:00 PM. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, blanket or picnic basket.

You can follow the band on Facebook or find more information about their schedule and history at saginaweddyband.org.