The Californer - Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Announces 2026 Long Beach Municipal Band Summer Concert Series

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Above: The Long Beach Municipal Band performs at Bixby Annex Park.

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) is proud to announce the 117th season of the Long Beach Municipal Band summer concert series, the nation's longest standing city-funded municipal band. This year's performance theme, Picnics and Pops, is an ode to Long Beach's iconic history, culture and community through popular hits across the decades. Concerts will take place at five Long Beach parks beginning Tuesday, June 23, through Friday, July 31. Each performance week will showcase a different theme, offering spectators a variety of musical entertainment all summer long.

"The Long Beach Municipal Band is more than a summer concert series–it's a cherished tradition that brings our community together through the power of music," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "We are proud to offer programs that foster community connection, celebrate the arts, and bring people across generations together to create lasting memories in our beautiful parks."

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring picnic style dinners, blankets, chairs and their best dance moves to enjoy a summer evening under the stars with the delightful sounds of the Long Beach Municipal Band. Performances will take place on the dates listed below. All concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. and are free.

Whaley Park North on Tuesdays, June 23 and 30
Bixby Annex Park on Tuesdays, July 7, 14, 21 and 28
Los Cerritos Park on Wednesdays, June 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Conductor Larry Curtis Concert Park at Marine Stadium on Thursdays, June 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30
El Dorado Park West on Fridays, June 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31

"This year's Long Beach Municipal Band performances capture the charm of a relaxed summer picnic, effortlessly paired with an eclectic mix of musical favorites across the decades," said Conductor Kurt Curtis. "From timeless classical pieces to upbeat pop arrangements, powerful patriotic tunes to emotional movie soundtracks and crowd pleasers from the American songbook. Each performance will bring the energy and excitement of one of America's finest bands–YOUR Long Beach Municipal Band!"

The weekly themes for the 2026 concert series as follows:

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Week 1: "City Lights, Jazz Nights"
Blending the spontaneity of Dixieland jazz with the soulful depth of the blues and the irresistible rhythm of swing, the opening week for the 117th season celebrates the enduring legacy and joyful vitality of these musical styles. Whether you are swaying to a laid-back groove or feeling the excitement of an upbeat swing number, this is more than a concert, it's an experience. The incomparable Crystal Lewis joins the Studio Band for a night of jazz, where her music will move and captivate the audience.

Week 2: "America the Beautiful: A Musical Tribute"
This week's theme honors the 250th anniversary of the nation's independence and celebrates the spirit of community and country, where music and pride come together under the open sky. From the triumphant sounds of "Stars and Stripes Forever" to the elegant grace of "America the Beautiful," every piece is designed to uplift and unite. As the sun sets and the music swells, these performances are an opportunity for families, friends and neighbors to gather together and share in a timeless tradition honoring our nation, its history and the people who make it strong. Tawanda Suessbrich-Joaquim's rich, expressive vocals blend classic jazz traditions with contemporary influences.

Week 3: "The Music Behind the Magic"
An enchanting set celebrating the ageless music of Disney. From soaring ballads to playful, upbeat numbers, each selection will transport audiences into the wonder and imagination of Disney's storytelling. Perfect for families and fans of all ages, this concert promises an evening filled with nostalgia, joy and a touch of magic. Crooner Mark Kopitzke, known for his smooth, expressive vocals and timeless interpretations that blend classic swing-era charm with a modern sensibility, closes the second half this week.

Week 4: "Songs for the One You Love"
Dedicated to the timeless power of love songs, where music captures the beauty, passion and emotion of the human heart. This special concert features a mix of romantic ballads and heartfelt classics, from iconic hits by Nat King Cole, The Righteous Brothers and Elvis Presley. Perfect for couples, friends and anyone who believes in the power of music, this performance promises an evening full of romance, nostalgia and unforgettable moments. Jazz singer Meloney Collins is recognized for her soulful voice and emotive phrasing, bringing a fresh yet classic feel to contemporary and traditional jazz.

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Week 5: "John Williams in Concert: A Legacy of Cinema"
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating the enduring music of legendary composer John Williams, whose iconic scores have shaped the sound of modern cinema. Audiences will be transported across galaxies, deep into enchanted worlds, and through thrilling cinematic moments where every piece captures the grandeur and emotion that have made Williams' compositions instantly recognizable across generations. American R&B singer and songwriter Scott People will make his debut with the Studio Band this week. Known for his smooth, emotive vocal style, blending classic soul influences with modern electronic production will have everyone on their feet.

Week 6: "Legends of Vinyl: The Bands That Defined an Era"
Get ready for a high-energy trip back in time as this electrifying concert celebrates the unforgettable pop and rock anthems of the 1960s and 1970s. From the infectious grooves of The Beatles and Eric Clapton to the soulful power of Stevie Wonder and the spirited energy of Led Zeppelin, this concert will deliver hit after hit. Sing along to timeless favorites, relive the spirit of Woodstock and feel the pulse of an era that changed music forever. The Studio Band will welcome longtime fan favorite Nicole Kubis for this performance, known for her singing across music genres, to bring the 117th season of the Long Beach Municipal Band to an exciting close.

The Long Beach Municipal Band is hosted by the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine, with additional sponsorships from Port of Long Beach, Partners of Parks, and Long Beach Energy and Environmental Services.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, the award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. More information about the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine is available at LBParks.org and by following us @LongBeachParks on Facebook, Instagram and X.

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