Before ear-splitting amps and vinyl records, when people wanted music, they made it themselves. Local citizens formed bands and played at various outdoor venues. Parades were a favorite. So, too, were summer concerts under the stars. One of the more popular of these bands in the years following the Civil War were the “cornet bands,” consisting of varying types of brass instruments collectively known as cornets. Damned the amps! These cornet bands could be heard over a great distance without amplification.
Do you recognize anyone in this photo of the Prattsville Cornet Band? Perhaps you had a father or grandfather in the band? If so, we’d love to have you share your family history and memories here.
Carolyn Bennett
Prattsville Town Historian
Zadock Pratt Museum 