MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday in Marquette for the new Presque Isle Bandshell, the home of The Marquette Band.
For many, it’s simply called the bandshell, and the time has come to replace the nearly century-old music venue..
It’s been a fixture in the city since the 1930s, when it was built specifically for the 25-member Marquette band. The bandshell was due to be replaced almost 10 years ago, but funding has always been an issue. Now, thanks to a donation from the Ray and Peg Hirvonen Foundation and others. Today was the day.
“We first got our original quote back in 2016, and for this to finally come through now, the Hirvonen Foundation is helping us out, giving that amazingly generous donation,” said Marquette Band President Mike Stucko.
The Marquette band has grown considerably since the 1930s and this new facility will accommodate the modern version of this musical institution.
“We have 127 active members right now, and we’re going to be seating close to 100 for many of our concerts,” said Stucko.
“The venue itself will be a little bit bigger and made of, you know, a newer style of construction materials, but have a lot of the same look and feel that it did,” said Marquette Director of Community Services, Jon Swenson.
The new bandshell will also play host to various types of entertainment. Band President Mike Stucko realizes the possibilities.
“What other kinds of music can we bring in? What other kinds of shows and acts, and festivals are going to happen in Marquette because of this band shell?” said Stucko.
“The cost is not put on the taxpayers of Marquette to build it, which was amazing. Of them to really step up and take that off there in a time where we don’t have a lot of extra funds to go around, but the arts are so important to our area,” said Marquette Mayor Jessica Hanley.
Marquette Mayor Jessica Hanley is happy the new band shell will retain its rustic appearance, albeit with today’s technology.
“And the bandshell that we have had did its job and was great, but the acoustics were not what they could be. Whereas with this new design, the architect did a great job, really incorporating everything to make sure that they’re just gonna sound amazing,” said Hanley.
If you want to say goodbye to the old bandshell, time is limited. The structure is slated to be demolished early this week.
