Foot Guard Swing Band To Perform, August 24

The Governor’s Foot Guard Swing Band will perform the final concert of the 2005 Ashlar of Newtown Summer Sounds Concert Series on Wednesday, August 24.

The public is invited to join residents of Ashlar of Newtown and Lockwood Lodge for the free concert, which will begin at 7 pm. The performance is scheduled to be outdoors, but will move inside if weather is inclement.

The First Company Governor’s Foot Guard was formed in 1771 when the General Assembly of the Colony of Connecticut passed a resolution for its formation.

Although no mention was specifically made of a band of musicians that year, and monies were allocated during the first year of the foot guard’s existence for fifes and drums, the permanent band was not formally formed until 1904.

Band members are enlisted personnel of the Company, full members of the First Company and of the State Organized Militia, who train and drill side by side with the Food Guard’s infantry unit. Since 1904 the band has marched in parades and performed concerts at many prestigious events, adding the color, ceremony and precision associated with rich military tradition.

Today the First Company is led by Captain Laura O’Connell, the first female officer in the 230-year history of the First Company, and the band continues to perform concerts, parades, ceremonies and special events throughout the Northeast.

The band also participates frequently in joint concerts with college and public school bands throughout Connecticut.

Performances regularly include marches, symphonic selections and patriotic medleys that highlight the musicianship and versatility of the musicians.

Attendees should bring chairs or blankets for seating; a limited number of chairs will be available. Light refreshments  will be sold, and picnics are welcome.

Ashlar is at 139 Toddy Hill Road; call 426-5847 for additional information.