Since the fire at the Wakefield First Baptist Church on October 23, 2018, the band has been humbled by the outreach we have received from the community. We have heard from many Wakefield residents and from concerned musicians all over the United States. This page is intended to be a place where we can post more details about where we are and what we are planning.
How to Help
We are still actively fundraising to replace what was lost in the fire. Donations in all forms are greatly appreciated.
To donate online click this image:
Donations by mail can be sent to:
MCB is a 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax-deductible.
What is needed immediately?
We were able to continue with our 2018 Carols & Cookies Christmas Concert. We are now transitioning to addressing our longer term needs for a permanent rehearsal location and replacing the percussion equipment.
What kind of equipment was lost in the fire?
The band rented a closet in the basement of the First Baptist Church. In the closet we had nearly all of the band’s percussion equipment and some miscellaneous accessories such as stands, music folders, and a few arrangements that were in the process of being passed out or passed in. The most significant items were a full set of Tympani, a full sized Xylophone, and a drum set with many accessories. The estimated cost to replace everything is approximately $27,250. The band’s music library was stored in a different location and has survived.
Where will the band rehearse now?
The Wakefield public schools has been gracious in opening the band room at the high school for us. The band has formed a search committee to find a new permanent rehearsal space. We intend to stay in the Wakefield area or as close to it as we can. Now that the Carols & Cookies concert is completed, we are working hard to find a new home. We have had a great relationship with WPS and do not want to overstay our welcome there.
Did the band have insurance?
Yes, we had a policy with a limit of $10,500. This policy was set up over a decade ago and had not been updated to reflect additional equipment purchases. Our claim has now been processed and after the deductible and depreciation, we have received $9,932 from our insurance company. This amount is now included in the thermometer in the top right. We will likely be reviewing our policy once we begin to replace things.
Equipment Donations
We have received several offers of equipment in various conditions. These are very appreciated and we will consider them carefully. Please contact president@mcbconcertband.org if you would like to talk about anything specific in more detail.
Fundraising Thermometer
The goal thermometer on the right of this page is manually updated. It may take several days for donations to be reflected. The thermometer also includes insurance funds.
Thank You!
We are so grateful to everyone who has reached out to us. Here are just some of the comments we have received:
Enjoyed my time with the Middlesex Band a few years ago playing baritone sax. Glad to be able to give back!
From one orchestra (Philharmonic Society of Arlington) to another. Chris K, told us of your plight last night. Good luck!
I am grateful for the years I played with MCB. Your spirit is strong and you will achieve whatever you wish. Much love and best wishes.
So sorry to hear about the loss of the church and the band’s equipment. I have such great memories of playing in the band for over a decade. Hope this contribution helps defray part of your costs to replace items lost in the fire.
Best of luck- as a Lafayette St neighbor I will miss the sound of your music coming from the church windows on rehearsal nights.
As a member of the New Orleans Concert Band, we know the feeling of trying to recover after disaster. Good luck.
Michelle & I are donating our Christmas money to you folks. I enjoyed being an MCB member under Jim O’dell & with Lisa and Wendy. Very best wishes and Happy Holidays to you all! Grant K. (Seacoast Wind Ensemble)