Crestwood Community Band Brings Together Former Musicians

BIRMINGHAM, AL — For most student musicians, graduation means putting their instruments away for good. But rather than letting them gather dust in their cases, Crestwood residents are putting those instruments to use in the Crestwood Community Band, a group that meets once a week to practice and perform different pieces of music.

"We're just a bunch of people who used to play and want to play again," said group organizer Stacey Gordon. "Some people still play in churches, but most of us haven't played in forever. So instead of letting our instruments rust in closets, we decided to use them."

Gordon said the group has grown steadily since it was first started in January 2015, comprising members both in their neighborhood and around the Birmingham area. Gordon estimates the band has 30 consistent members that make up all three major sections of a typical band—brass, woodwind and percussion.

Even though its primarily a pastime, the band performs regularly at venues like Cahaba Brewing Company and Iron City, though Gordon said the performance aspect shouldn't scare off any beginners.

"Everyone is welcome," Gordon said. "No matter their age, skill level, nothing. Wherever they're from, it doesn't matter. All are welcome."

The Crestwood Community Band meets every Monday at 6:30 at the Girls Inc. building in Crestwood.

Photo Courtesy of Crestwood Community Band Facebook