Collectors I have known

Like most instrument collectors, I have met several collectors in 30 plus years. Some have been helpful to me as a young collector and others have not. About 30 years ago I met Franz Streitweser and viewed his collection. He offered me much good advice and it is to him that I owe my success in collecting. Another important collector of my acquaintance is Dan Woolpert who rescued the 1st Brigade Band when it was about to fall apart about 30 years ago.  Not only did Dan become a good friend, he also became a collector and is responsible in large measure for the magnificent collection amassed by the 1st Brigade Band. He became the bandmaster and curator of the collection, The 1st Brigade Band collection is unique in that the majority of the instruments are restored to playing condition and are used regularly in concert performances

Nancy Campbell, a performer on brass is one of the main reasons the collection remains playable. Other persons, Byron Autrey in particular, also does many restorations for the band.

I know of no other band with such a large collection of playable instruments anywhere.

Now that I have retired from playing and collecting, I appreciate what a really important unit this band is and was in my life. I keep in contact with other collectors and would enjoy hearing from both collectors and restoration experts on this very interesting hobby

Battle of the Bands July 2006

Two bands of Civil War vintage instruments play in competition across the Canon River then join forces for “Home Sweet Home.” First Brigade Band from Wisconsin and 26th North Carolina Regimental Band based in Baltimore both played during the Vintage Band Festival held in Northfield, Minnesota during July 2006. Dr. Paul Niemisto of St. Olaf College was the organizer.

1st Brigade Band @ Vintage Band Festival

Found this little video on the net.  It’s a clip of the First Brigade Band playing “Marching Through Georgia” during the Vintage Band Festival held in July 2006 at Northfield Minnesota.