Central Methodist University is set to celebrate its long tradition of musical excellence with a full day of events, highlighted by the annual CMU Band Legacy Concert, on Sunday, March 23.
The day will begin with church service at Linn Memorial United Methodist Church at 10:30 a.m., followed by the Band Legacy Luncheon at noon, and the concert at 3 p.m. The CMU concert band will perform both during the church service and the concert.
At the luncheon, alumni and other visitors will have a chance to celebrate Paul Montemurro ’58, who served as the director of bands from 1967 to 1972. Despite a relatively short tenure, Montemurro had a substantial impact on the band, increasing the sizes of both the marching and concert bands. He also earned many awards and recognitions throughout his career as an educator, including being named one of the Outstanding Educators of America in 1971.
Dr. Kara Metzger, current director of bands, will speak at the luncheon as well, wrapping up the 2025 Band Tour for those in attendance.
Metzger will then lead the band at the concert, which will also include the presentation of this year’s Seward Band Award for Excellence. Alumni are also invited to register to play along with the band for Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite, then stick around for a reception with cookies and punch after the concert.
In addition to the scheduled events, the Eagle Store will be open to the public from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., and the Ashby-Hodge Gallery of American Art will be open for its usual hours, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
For more information on registering and lodging for the event, visit www.centralalumnievents.com. To watch the concert livestream, click here.