Conductor Sheldon Meyer introduces the “Jurassic Park” theme to the audience during the Lake Crystal Community Band’s performance Thursday, July 2, 2026, at German Park Amphitheater in New Ulm. (Photo by Amy Zents)

The Lake Crystal Community Band performed Thursday, July 2, at New Ulm’s German Park Amphitheater as part of the Concerts in the Park series.

The morning had threatened rain, and New Ulm Park and Rec staff were monitoring the weather forecast.

Recreation Program Supervisor Ben Doeden said he was waiting until about 3-3:30 p.m. to make a final call.

By late afternoon, the update was clear: “Weather is looking better! Should be on!”

At 7 p.m., a beautiful evening unfolded.

A good turnout gathered with lawn chairs for the concert in the amphitheater at German Park.

When Conductor Sheldon Meyer introduced the group, he said it was the band’s first time at German Park. “Never been here before,” he said.

The concert began with “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The program included the theme from “Jurassic Park,” an abbreviated selection of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” and patriotic melodies honoring the different branches of the armed forces.

During one 1930s jazz selection, band members sang scat, a jazz vocal improvisation technique using wordless syllables (such as “shoop,” “bop” or “doo-wah”) to mimic instruments.

The ensemble featured a full complement of community band instruments, including brass (trumpets, trombones, French horns, euphoniums and tuba), woodwinds (flutes, clarinets, saxophones), and percussion.

Meyer said the band tries to offer a variety of music.

Meyer said the LCCB has no audition for players wanting to join, “just a desire to play.”

This approach has welcomed musicians who had not played in 40 years, along with new and returning players.

Meyer, a retired school band director, now lives in Kiester, MN, near the Iowa border. He had previously taught in Wabasso, and Madelia schools.

The band, in its 42nd season since 1985, rehearses at Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial High School and is open to musicians of all ages and skill levels.

The Lake Crystal Community Band’s summer schedule continues with more concerts in Lake Crystal and surrounding areas.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to perform for you here,” Meyer said during the concert.

The audience was appreciative throughout the program, applauding loudly after each selection.

For more information on LCCB find updates on the band’s Facebook page or the ISD 2071 Community Ed site.