First Posted: 8/13/2014

Keystone College’s new Department of Instrumental Music is introducing several new band ensembles and is looking for qualified college students, high school students, and members of the local community.

Beginning this fall, Keystone will offer three separate band programs: a symphonic (concert) band, a jazz ensemble, and a pep band for athletic contests. The bands will be under the direction of Keystone’s new Director of Bands Jeffrey A. Tylutki. Tylutki studied music at Mansfield University and West Chester University and is former director of bands at Lackawanna Trail High School and Orange County High School in Virginia.

Keystone has had several school bands and orchestras since its founding as Keystone Academy in 1868. However, the new bands will be the first official instrumental ensembles at the college since the early 1970s.

In addition to Keystone students, the three musical groups will be open free of charge to local high school and college students and members of the community of any age who have some musical experience. Mr. Tylutki has been spending much of his time since beginning his job at Keystone a few weeks ago recruiting new band members and has also been volunteering at local high schools to offer assistance to band directors.

All of the bands will play at various events and concerts on campus during the academic year. The bands will also be available for performances in the community. The symphonic band will focus on contemporary and traditional wind ensemble music while the jazz ensemble will play a variety of popular jazz. The pep band will entertain fans and inspire athletes at Keystone athletic events such as soccer and basketball games.

Rehearsals for the bands will begin Sept. 2 during the evening hours. The symphonic band will rehearse on Tuesdays, the jazz ensemble on Wednesdays, and the athletic band on Thursdays. The first performance is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. in the Theatre in Brooks on campus. The event is open to the public and free of charge.