Music, Music, Music...the universal language - vocal and instrumental, has been alive and well in Champaign-Urbana since the 1860's and probably earlier.

An article in the August 4, 1860 Clarion describing the "Colored residents of Champaign-Urbana, celebrating the Anniversary of Emancipation in the British West Indies with song while picnicking on the Sangamon River," is evidence of this.

Some years later, on January 7, 1874, an article appeared in the Champaign County Gazette, announcing an exhibition and festival held by Colored citizens of Champaign-Urbana celebrating the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln. The article read, "Miss Jennie Mehan presided at the piano in an accomplished manner and accompanied soloists, J.W. Smith, Leopold Green, Kate Waldron, Bertie Sanders and N. Washington. The program was varied and attractive, and all who attended were united in saying the affair was a decided success and reflects much credit upon the taste and abilities of the Colored citizens of Champaign-Urbana."

As churches began to appear in the 1860's, music was also involved. Choirs, choir directors, accompanists and instrumentalists, etc. were all a part of the church services.

Small bands started making an appearance in Champaign-Urbana. One of the first, the "Brewer's Juvenile Band," was established in 1907. Continuing on throughout the 1920's and 30's, several area orchestras were formed. (Here) are pictures of three musical groups, circa 1907-1928.

During the 1930's, 40's and 50's a number of other musical groups were formed. In our next issue, we will continue this column on music and entertainment.