Blossom Festival Band — 65-Piece Big Band Ensemble Performing in Northeast Ohio

Blossom Festival Band Info

The Blossom Festival Band is a 65-piece big band ensemble dedicated to presenting Blossom Music Festival programming in Northeast Ohio. Since its founding in 1969, the group has become a cornerstone of summer concert culture in the region, delivering a blend of patriotic, Broadway, and classical repertoire with a polished, professional sound. The band operates under a lineage of conductor leadership that has helped shape its distinctive sound and programming over the decades.

While the ensemble is closely associated with Blossom Music Center and The Cleveland Orchestra, it projects its own identity as a collaborative, community-minded group that brings together top-tier musicians to celebrate American orchestral and big-band tradition. The Blossom Festival Band is known for large-scale performances, memorable concert experiences, and artistically diverse programs that appeal to families, music lovers, and casual listeners alike.

Additional Blossom Festival Band Info

Biography highlights, discography milestones, and upcoming tour details are designed to help fans secure seats with ease. The ensemble traces its roots to 1969, when initial direction came from Meredith Willson, followed by a long period under Leonard B. Smith (1972–1998). Since 1998, Loras John Schissel has led the group, maintaining a high standard of performance that resonates with Blossom Music Center audiences. The band collaborates with Blossom season programming and The Cleveland Orchestra channels to present concerts such as the annual Salute to America around July 3–4, featuring patriotic selections, Broadway favorites, and spectacular fireworks. In 2025, fans can look forward to the Salute to America performances and a special July 5 engagement featuring Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone performed with live orchestra. For updates and event details, follow official Blossom Music Center channels and The Cleveland Orchestra social platforms.

Secure your seats with our easy, no-fuss service — we’ve got you covered for all Blossom Festival Band performances in Northeast Ohio. Check the schedule, reserve your tickets, and enjoy a quintessential big-band experience tied to one of Ohio’s most beloved summer venues.

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