November 15, 2023
ROCKY RIVER, Ohio – For the first time in five years, “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band returned to the Midwest on tour, performing at multiple locations throughout the region.
One of the performances during the Midwest tour was on Oct. 30 at Severance Hall where RRHS Band Director Mike Komperda helped direct a performance from the Marine Band. In addition, Marine Band members Staff Sgt. Kristin Bowers, Staff Sgt. Andrew Jacobi, Gunnery Sgt. Christophy Reaves and Staff Sgt. Bradley Loudis visited both Rocky River High School and Rocky River Middle School where they spoke and worked with members of the band.
The Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. President since John Adams. Known as “The President’s Own” since the days of Thomas Jefferson, the Marine Band’s mission is to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps.
During the 31-day tour, the Marine Band covered more than 4,600 miles around the Midwest with performances in 29 difference cities in 11 states with concerts in Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Wisconsin.