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Ely City Band:
Celebrating 137 Years of Music

The 137th Annual Ely City Band season is almost here, and musicians are invited to join for another summer of community music-making.

Whether you’ve played with the band for years, are returning after time away, or are new to the group, there is a place for you this season.

Under the direction of Karl Kubiak, the Ely City Band will begin rehearsals on Monday, June 15 at 6:00 PM in the Ely High School Band Room.

2026 Season at a Glance
Rehearsals | 6:00 PM | Ely High School Band Room
  • Monday, June 15

  • Tuesday, June 16

  • Monday, June 22

  • Tuesday, June 23

  • Monday, June 29

  • Tuesday, June 30

  • Monday, July 6

  • Monday, July 20

  • Monday, July 27

Concerts | Whiteside Park Pavilion
  • Saturday, July 4 | ~3:00 PM (immediately following the parade)

  • Tuesday, July 7 | 6:00 PM

  • Tuesday, July 21 | 6:00 PM

  • Tuesday, July 28 | 6:00 PM

Rain location: Washington Auditorium

Who Can Join?

Everyone.

The Ely City Band welcomes musicians of all ages, experience levels, and availability. If you can join for one concert, several rehearsals, or the full season, you are encouraged to participate.

If you know someone who might want to play this summer, invite them.

Helpful Note for Concert Nights

On concert days, musicians who are able are invited to meet at the school at 5:15 PM to help load chairs, stands, and percussion for transport to Whiteside Park. Help with post-concert pack-up is also appreciated.

Planning to Play? Let Karl Know

If you’re hoping to join for any part of the season, please reach out to Karl in advance if possible. It helps with planning and music preparation.

Karl Kubiak, Director
(218) 533-0450
karlkubiak1@gmail.com

First rehearsal: Monday, June 15 at 6:00 PM

We’re proud to help support one of Ely’s longest-running musical traditions, and we hope to see the band back in full force this summer.

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Sponsor the 2026 Season:

Love what the Ely City Band brings to the community? You can ensure this tradition continues by sponsoring the 2026 season!

A full season sponsorship is just $1,000, which helps:

  • Purchase new music

  • Support the work of conductor Karl Kubiak

  • Keep concerts free and accessible to all

Want to team up with others?
  • Split the sponsorship two ways at $500 each

  • Or four ways at $250 each

To become a sponsor or pledge your support click the button below or  email us at
contact@northernlakesarts.org

Where Will the Arts Take You?

At Northern Lakes Arts Association, every program is a doorway into Ely’s vibrant Rural Arts Ecosystem. Choose your path below and see what inspires you most:

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MainStage Productions

Experience unforgettable theater, concerts, and dance performances that set the standard for artistic excellence in Ely.

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Northern Lakes Arts Academy

Grow your skills through workshops, camps, and hands-on mentorship for artists of all ages.

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Community Arts & Events

Connect with neighbors through inclusive programs, local showcases, and celebrations that bring the arts to everyone.

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Northern Lakes Arts Association 

1900 East Camp Street, Ely, Mn 55731
218-235-9937
Contact@NorthernLakesArts.Org
EIN: 36-3485240

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2026 Donors and Sponsors

Legacy Circle Members
Recognizing individuals whose enduring generosity has helped shape and sustain Northern Lakes Arts Association over time. This circle reflects long-term impact and may include supporters who prefer not to list a public giving amount.

Catherine Aldrich

Kari Wenger

Anonymous

Season Sponsors ($1500+)

Boundary Waters Connect

Brainstorm Bakery

Ely Outfitting Company 

Motel Ely

Sherpa

The Boathouse

Barb & Laverne Dunsmore

Insula

The Vermilion Campus Foundation

Bernie & Kari Dusich

Holly Rom

Lindsey Lang

Larry & Catherine Bogolub

Jamie & Cindy Gardner

Joe & Mary Bianco

Raven Words Press

Firefly Antiques

Anonymous x2

Gold Level Donors ($1000+)

Alanna Dore

Bridgette Sundell

Carrie Bezak

Caroline Owens

David & Kathleen Miller

Heidi Buettner

Mary Louise Icenhour

Nancy Piragis

Paul & Sue Schurke

Roger & Nancy Benjamin

Rusty & DiAnn White

Sarah Wigdahl-Vollom

Sue Duffy & Linda Ganister

Virgie & The Ivancich Family

River Point Resort & Outfitting Co.

Silver Level Donors ($500+)

Al Gerhardstein & Mimi Gingold

Alanna Dore

Brian Batzli

Carolyn & Keith Dehnbostel

Christine Stevens

Ely Auto

Karen McManus

Katie Heitzig

Jan Carey

Kristine & Krista Woerhide

Laura Myntti

Norma McKinnon

Pamela Saunders

Sheldon Damberg

Steven & Mona Johnson

Tim Deyak

Town of Morse

Troy West

Bronze Level Donors ($250+)

Albert & Karen Maddern

Andrea Landro-Pike

Ann Spitler

Bear Island Realty

Brian Krause

Darlene Nemanich

Dave & Rene Settergren

David & Michelle Young

Ely Flower and Seed

Frandsen Bank & Trust

Grand Ely Lodge

Glenda Harbaugh

James Montana III

Karl Kubiak

Kathleen & Byron Anderson

Linda Carlson

Log Cabin Coffee

Mindy Shulfer

Nancy Sorjanen

Mrs. Pamela Kearney

Piragis Northwoods
Raven’s Wing B&B

Rebecca Nova

Roberta Klar

Sue Germek
Sue & Wayne Pasmick

The individuals , businesses and families listed above help make Northern Lakes Arts Association possible. Their generosity supports artists, youth programs, and live performances that bring our community together.

If you would like to join this circle of supporters, we welcome you.

And if we have accidentally missed your name in this listing, please let us know so we can properly recognize your support.

To make a gift or update your information, click the button below

Thank you for helping keep the arts alive in Ely.
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