Past Conductors
Eugene La Barre (band director in 1917?)
Found on a poster about this professional municipal band, it touted "Soloists of National Reputation,
Male Quartette, Saxophone Quartette, Triple Quartette of Saxophones and All Up-To-The Minute Novelties.
Bill Call (band director ?)
The first band commission appointed conductor. The year was probably 1937 as through efforts of Local
26 of the American Federation of Musicians and interested citizens a band tax was passed. The revenue
from this small tax assures the community of over 25 concerts a year.
Forrest Woodman (band director from 1941? to 1949)
Mr. Woodman was for many years, the supervisor of music in the Peoria public schools.
Paul Vegna (band director from 1949 till 1962)
Paul came to Peoria in 1939 after playing and conducting bands and theater orchestras in St. Louis. He
played baritone horn, trombone and saxophone - replaced in February of 1962 by a band comission vote.
Fred Huber (band director from 1962 till 1991)
Fred, a graduate of Peoria Manual, earned his bachelor's degree in music from the University of Illinois
in 1935 and his master's degree from Illinois Wesleyan. He began teaching in the Peoria Public schools
in 1936. He played violin, viola and string bass. He retired after the 1990 season.
David Vroman (band director from 1991 till present)
David grew up in East Peoria. Attended Western Illinois University and the University of Illinois.
Currently Director of Bands and Chairperson for the Department of Music at Bradley University. He is a
french horn player and has earned a doctorate in music education.
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