The Under 21 Band at The 2006 Show of Shows

Photo taken By: Paula Harkin's Uptown String Band

This year at the annual Show of Shows, the next generation of Mummers was given the opportunity to shine. More than 50 members of the 17 string bands, ages 4 to 21, combined to form one band, which was featured as the opening of the second half of both shows. Under the direction of two young members of the Woodland String Band, A.J. Ford III and Chuck Graser Jr, the "Kids' Band" performed 3 selections, complete with the youngest mumms struttin' out front. The band rehearsed several times in the weeks preceding the shows, resulting in an inspiring performance that we are proud to feature on this site. Rick Tierno, also of Woodland, organized the youth band that performed at the shows several years ago, and was instrumental in the success of this ambitious undertaking, although he gives all the credit to the "kids."

2005 was a sad year in which we lost many beloved and long-time mummers, among them Jimmy King, George Stewart (Woodland), Dave Reiber (Woodland/Durning-retired), Al Carango (Uptown), Joe Venuto (GOSB), Tom Lafferty (GOSB), and a gentleman from Duffy. As a tribute to these men and all others we have lost through the years, A.J. and Chuck chose to play a spiritual tune, "You'll Never Walk Alone." The song was arranged by Ross Hoffnagle of Hegeman, who passed away suddenly in 2002 at the age of 35. A.J. directed the band while a white rose, one for each mummer we lost, was placed in the spotlight. It was a touching tribute that showed the amount of respect these young men and women have for those who came before them.

We applaud the "Kids' Band," and are proud to harbor such a mature and talented group within our own ranks. We hope that they will make this showcase an annual addition to the Show of Shows. Their performance that day was certainly anything BUT that of "kids," and it was great to see them take pride in it - they set a good example for us adults. It looks like we might just have another generation behind us that is as dedicated to preserving the tradition as we are, so please continue to promote, encourage, and mentor the young members in your bands.

Written By: Amanda "MummChic" Ettinger Uptown String Band

For more fasinating features on mums please take a look at www.stringbandarchives.com