History & Mission

History of the CCCB

The Craven Community Concert Band (CCCB) was organized by the late Dr. Robert Bianco in 2000 and he conducted the band for five years. In 2005 he turned over the conductor’s baton to Brad Langhans, Director of Bands at West Craven High School. Mr. Langhans brought in an assistant, Mark Lorek, Band Director at Grover C. Fields Middle School, in 2006 and together they led the band for two seasons.  Mr. Mitch Martin conducted the band for the 2008-09 concert season.  Gunnery Sergeant Martin resigned upon his transfer from Cherry Point Marine Air Station to Quantico.  Mr. Mike Laird conducted the band for the 2009-2010 concert season but then he resigned when he was promoted to CWO4 and transferred to New Orleans.
Joe Olivieri was selected as Conductor in 2010 and led the band through December 2013, when he “retired” to pursue other interests.
Matt Farquhar was the Conductor from January 2014, through May 2015.  Mitch Martin, having retired to the area, began conducting the band in September 2015.

Mission

The Mission of the CCCB is to provide a musical service to our community by providing an opportunity for instrumental musicians to come together and enjoy playing a variety of music. The CCCB strives to give students and more experienced musicians an opportunity to play together and learn from each other. As a volunteer group, CCCB strives for excellence but keeps the perspective that playing music must be an enjoyable experience for both the audience and the performers. By presenting several concerts each year the CCCB keeps alive the long tradition of community bands in the New Bern/Craven County area.