UNION — Music lovers of all ages will enjoy music of many styles during the celebration weekend of Union’s 250th anniversary in July, according to Union Sestercentennial Committee Co-chairs Keith Siegel and Argy Nestor, in a news release. In addition, there will be food trucks and other attractions – a full listing and complete schedule can be found at the Union Historical Society website.

Friday July 19:

Blue Hill Brass Band 5:30-7pm on the Common
The Blue Hill Brass Band was originally formed to help fill the program for a George Stevens Academy Christmas concert in Blue Hill. Over its 40-year span, the group has performed upbeat popular brass music for festivals, fairs, concerts, and special events throughout Maine and New England. The group features three of its original members: Curt Brossmer-trumpet, Stephen Norris-trombone, and Paul Greenstone-tuba.

Enter the Haggis 7-9pm on the Common
For over two decades, Toronto’s Enter The Haggis has combined bagpipes and fiddles with a rock rhythm section to create a distinctively eclectic sound, praised by The Boston Globe, The Washington Post, and Canada’s Globe and Mail, among others. Their songs offer singalong melodies and deep, meaningful lyrics which tell the stories of everyday hard working people, often faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Signature songs like “One Last Drink”, “Gasoline”, “Down With The Ship” and “Lancaster Gate” have been streamed millions of times, have appeared in Hollywood movies, and have been performed and recorded by artists around the world. This concert is sponsored by Union residents Holly and Buddy Savage.

Saturday July 20:

Midcoast Community Band 11-12:30 in the Parade
The Midcoast Community Band, led by Jo Anne Parker, was formed in 1986 and is regionally known for its wonderful performances. The band plays music of all varieties, especially marches and patriotic music, Broadway showtunes, and pop songs from the ‘50s - ‘70s. The Midcoast Community Band is helping keep the tradition of community bands alive in Maine for all generations to enjoy.

Downeast Brass 11-12:30 in the Parade
The Downeast Brass is comprised of five highly experienced musicians from Southern and Central Maine who enjoy playing a wide range of styles, from classical to Dixieland, in a wide range of venues, from parades to wedding ceremonies. The Downeast Brass's founder and arranger, Dwight Tibbetts, has kept the unique talents and skills of his colleagues in mind as he has arranged music specifically for the group. From Andy Forster's pristine high trumpet tones to Mark Mumme's full bass sonority, the Downeast Brass combines the skills of some of Maine's premier musicians.

Dunlap Highland Band 11-12:30 in the Parade
Founded in 1994, the Dunlap Highland Band is Maine's longest-running community bagpipe and drum band. The band was originally named the Dunlap Fraternal Highlanders after its founding location: a masonic lodge in Biddeford, Maine. Today, the Dunlap Highland Band is an active parade band, performing at events throughout northern New England.

Cat’s Pajamas 1-3pm on the Common
Cat’s Pajamas is a local group of friends who have fun playing and sharing music. They play an eclectic selection of acoustic tunes with a leaning toward rich vocal harmonies. Mixed in with several original songs, their setlist draws on the blues, Appalachian swing tradition, some old time Maine songs, and humorous ones, too.

Sunday July 21:

Gospel Music Hour 9:30-10:30am on the Common

Since 1967, sister and brother musicians Sybil Wentworth and Phil Clement have been playing piano and guitar together in the midcoast area. They’ve been playing mom and dad’s favorite gospel hymns for the past 20 years.

Harborside Harmony 3-4:30pm Closing Ceremony on the Common
Directed by Kate Wiley Howell, Harborside Harmony is an a capella group that sings in barbershop style of four-part harmony. The chorus will be performing a patriotic medley and Let There Peace at the Sestercentennial closing ceremony.

For those interested in volunteering to help with these and other Sestercentennial activities, please contact the Union Sestercentennial Committee at unionme250@gmail.com.