Beyond its local impact, the band has served as a cultural ambassador for both Minnesota and the United States, completing six international goodwill tours across Europe since 1986. Despite global invitations, its core mission remains focused on serving Minnesota communities through accessible, high-quality live music.
The ensemble’s longevity and artistic vitality are due in large part to leaders such as longtime conductor Joseph Komro, whose nearly four decades of service helped shape the band’s modern identity. Today, the Minnesota State Band operates as a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization, continuing its 125+ year tradition of excellence. Its concerts often feature beloved works such as “Hail! Minnesota,” the state song by Truman E. Rickard, and conclude with Sousa’s iconic march, The Stars and Stripes Forever.
About the artist
The Minnesota State Band, established in 1898, is the official band of the State of Minnesota and the only remaining state band in the United States. Founded under the direction of Christian Selling, the ensemble quickly gained national recognition, with members recruited by John Philip Sousa and Selling himself going on to work with Oscar Hammerstein I in New York.
Rooted in the rich tradition of American concert bands, the Minnesota State Band continues to honor the legacy of Sousa by programming a dynamic mix of popular and symphonic works for broad audiences. For more than a century, the band has performed at significant civic events, including appearances at the Minnesota State Capitol, and has maintained longstanding summer traditions such as performances at Como Park in St. Paul.
