Ophir Prison Marching Band is among ensembles scheduled at the Community Band Festival in Carmichael Park this weekend. The group presents trademark virtuosity and irreverence at 5 pm.  Neil Hillel (AKA Captain Rufus T. Whizbang) conducts.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Free to the public, a June 1 and 2 Community Band Festival will present two days of marches, pops, jazz and symphonic suites in Carmichael Park.

The Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Association continues a 40-plus-year tradition with a blowout that fields volunteer bands from all over Northern California. More than 400 musicians contribute talent.

Performances begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 1. The Sacramento Youth Band is first on stage; different and diverse ensembles continue on the hour for the rest of the weekend.

A set by the AUSA “Sounds of Freedom” Band is a Saturday highlight. Affiliated to the U.S. Army, this California-based volunteer group has received Congressional service honors. Its concert begins at 4 p.m.

Saturday performances culminate with two jazz sets: the Fred Morgan Big Band (6 p.m.) and the Swing Masters Big Band (7 p.m.). Dancing is encouraged.

The Ben Ali Shrine Band kicks off music at 11 a.m. on Sunday. The Sacramento Symphonic Winds, whose 60 members have entertained at every Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Association festival since the event debuted, has a 3 p.m. slot.

Sunday festivities end with a set by Swing Collective at 7 p.m.

Learn more about June 1 and 2 community band performances at www.svsba.net.

For Carmichael Recreation and Park District’s spring and fall all concert schedule, visit www.carmichaelpark.com/concerts-in-the-park.