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26 Issues

In addition to receiving 26 issues of The Independent Kansas City’s Journal of Society, your subscription will include our annual publication, the Charitable Events Calendar and a subscription to our e-newsletter, The Insider. Questions about your current subscription? Contact Laura Gabriel at 816-471-2800.

Mid America Freedom Band #PRIDE

The Mid America Freedom Band was founded by Alan Day and Zachary Parker in 2001. It is now in its 20th season. During that time, it has grown from 14 musicians to more than 80. It currently operates three component ensembles: a full concert band, a jazz band known as the Mighty Mo Jazz Orchestra, and a spirit pep band. In addition to hosting its own concerts, MAFB performs at events such as the Kansas City Fringe Festival, the Brookside St. Patrick’s Day Warm-up Parade, AIDS WALK Kansas City, and Kansas City PrideFest, as well as for organizations including the Kansas City Royals. Lee Hartman, the artistic director, stated, “We aren’t just a community band, we are the community. Our music should reflect our time and the communities we serve. With our focus on the music of marginalized composers writing for band, we bring to the stage those who have been systematically denied access. By programming women composers, LGBTQ+ composers, composers of color, and local composers, and through our commissioning of new works, we keep the field vibrant.” MAFB has premiered more than 25 new pieces through the years. Anyone who is 18 years of age or older, knows how to play a concert band instrument, and can read music may become a member – there are no auditions. Learn more at FreedomBand.com

Liz Brent, tuba player

 

Rameka Jennings, alto saxophone player

 

The Mighty Mo Jazz Orchestra: Jessie Riggins, Kevin Overton, Joe Duncan, David Deatherage, Tyler Huntington, Christian Montes, and Nathan Brown

 

Mid America Freedom Band hosted the 2018 Lesbian and Gay Band Association Annual Conference in Helzberg Hall at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. (Photo Credit: Andrew Schwartz)

Featured in the June 10, 2023 issue of The Independent. 

Features

War Horses For Veterans – The Derby Party

War Horses for Veterans, founded by Andy and Patricia Brown, held its third annual fundraiser, The Derby Party, on May 4th. More than 400 guests watched the Kentucky Derby race…

Symphony League of Kansas City – Spring Luncheon

Lidia’s was the lovely location for the Symphony League of Kansas City’s annual Spring Luncheon on May 8th. Mandy Burditt and Trish Mayer were the co-chairmen. Nearly 60 members and…

Symphony League of Kansas City – Ball Kickoff

Symphony League members gathered at Amy Volini’s beautiful home recently to kick off preparations for the 2024 Symphony Ball, “NOVA.”Amy and Julie Sykes hosted the fun event, where Ball Chairman…

Saint Luke’s Foundation – Spirit of Philanthropy Awards

In the spirit of gratitude, Saint Luke’s Foundation hosted its Spirit of Philanthropy Awards celebration on April 18th at the 1900 Building. Being honored this year are: Philanthropists of the…