About Wisconsin Bandshells & Stands
2005; Lakeside Park Bandshell, Fond du Lac, WI
Wisconsin Bandshells and Stands is a collection of bandshells and bandstands in the state. It includes photos, history and anecdotes. The material was gathered over a period of several years with the intent making it available for your enjoyment. Updates from you are most welcome.
Over time, the venues have evolved from the "stand" to the "shell" to the "stage" or "performance center". The stand was not big enough for larger bands or other types of entertainment and sound was not the best; the shell used the acoustics of the architecture to project the sound to the audience; and today the newer stages have integrated electronics and sound systems so sound carries to all.
Bandshells and bandstands abound across the state of Wisconsin. Almost any evening during the summer, music or other entertainment can be heard or seen. From Superior to Kenosha, from Florence to Monroe, people of all ages gather to enjoy the performances. Usually entertainment is provided by local musicians and artists who have practiced throughout the year to bring their talents for viewing and hearing. Various kinds of music is played for regularly scheduled concerts, festivals, or Fourth of July celebrations. They also are often used for weddings, military ceremonies, or other special events. The surroundings of them, such as veteran memorials, artistic sculptures, athletic fields, and other historic community buildings, reflect the community.
Each bandstand or bandshell has a unique story to tell. They are
- old and historic or modern with new and up-to-date technology;
- serve large or small audiences;
- simple or elaborate in design;
- near lakes, rivers, ponds, lagoons, or in centrally located parks;
- in cities, villages, and townships;
- built with privately gifted funds, Work Progress Administration funds during the 1930s, and/or other public funds;
- and are dedicated to local leaders or band masters or groups.
They hold and make memories, are fun, and appeal to all ages. They form a part of our Wisconsin fabric, heritage, and culture.
Over time, the venues have evolved from the "stand" to the "shell" to the "stage" or "performance center". The stand was not big enough for larger bands or other types of entertainment and sound was not the best; the shell used the acoustics of the architecture to project the sound to the audience; and today the newer stages have integrated electronics and sound systems so sound carries to all.
Bandshells and bandstands abound across the state of Wisconsin. Almost any evening during the summer, music or other entertainment can be heard or seen. From Superior to Kenosha, from Florence to Monroe, people of all ages gather to enjoy the performances. Usually entertainment is provided by local musicians and artists who have practiced throughout the year to bring their talents for viewing and hearing. Various kinds of music is played for regularly scheduled concerts, festivals, or Fourth of July celebrations. They also are often used for weddings, military ceremonies, or other special events. The surroundings of them, such as veteran memorials, artistic sculptures, athletic fields, and other historic community buildings, reflect the community.
Each bandstand or bandshell has a unique story to tell. They are
- old and historic or modern with new and up-to-date technology;
- serve large or small audiences;
- simple or elaborate in design;
- near lakes, rivers, ponds, lagoons, or in centrally located parks;
- in cities, villages, and townships;
- built with privately gifted funds, Work Progress Administration funds during the 1930s, and/or other public funds;
- and are dedicated to local leaders or band masters or groups.
They hold and make memories, are fun, and appeal to all ages. They form a part of our Wisconsin fabric, heritage, and culture.
Contact
Many thanks to all those - historical societies; libraries; local parks departments; city, town, and village officials; Chambers of Commerce; architects; individuals; friends and family - who have helped create this website by providing information, stories, newspaper articles, and photos.
Please feel free to contact WIbandshellsstands@gmail.com with any new information, photos, ideas, questions, comments or edits.
Please feel free to contact WIbandshellsstands@gmail.com with any new information, photos, ideas, questions, comments or edits.
© Copyright 2018 Marjorie A. Kozich
All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved