With a beat-filled history spanning over two decades, Cleveland Pride Band has become known for their spirited performances and their unmatched ability to provide a toe-tapping soundtrack to any Pride celebration.
That’s the undeniable entertainment for those who hear the Band.
But for those actually in the Band? Well, that’s something altogether more…forte.
“Everyone sees us at Pride, whether marching or performing on stage,” said Brad Speck, president of Cleveland Pride Band. “What people might not realize is how we offer a safe and authentic space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community and our allies who enjoy instrumental music to come together.”
Spanning four generations – from Gen Z to baby boomers – Cleveland Pride Band sports intergenerational connections rarely found elsewhere in the queer community. As queer spaces become more scarce and recent legislation continues to threaten our communities, Speck highlighted the unique opportunity to find chosen family within the ensemble.
“When I first joined, it was about reconnecting with music and making new friends,” Speck said. “Joining the band allowed me to forge incredible friendships while doing what I love.”
Initially named the Cleveland Lesbian/Gay/Allies Concert/Marching Band, the ensemble was founded in September 2003. Throughout the years, the group participated in everything from Cleveland Pride, to sit-down concerts, to joining other Lesbian and Gay Bands of America (LGBA) bands for Pride celebrations outside of northeast Ohio.
In 2007, the band changed its name to the Blazing River Freedom Band, referencing the historic Cuyahoga River fire of 1969. After navigating challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the band rebranded to Cleveland Pride Band in 2023, both to align with local chapters, like the Columbus Pride Band, and to reflect the city’s progress.
With a refreshed identity, the band experienced significant growth last year with an intentional strategy to connect with a younger generation. Speck was quick to credit to Josh Klamut, Cleveland Pride Band’s head of social media & marketing.
“I have to give my hats off to Josh,” Speck said. “He spearheaded a social media campaign that ramped up our channels and exposure, helping us reach 65 members for last year’s successful ‘Holiday Slay Ride’ concert.”
The band’s other recent achievements include marching with over 80 musicians in Cleveland’s 2023 “Pride in the CLE” and securing a performance at the Playhouse Square’s historic Ohio Theatre for their 20th-anniversary gala concert, a milestone for the band.
Future plans include creating an auxiliary group for beginners, providing free lessons for budding musicians and creating opportunities for more individuals to join rehearsals, all with the aim of building a more accessible and vibrant musical community. To hit those future notes will require financial support, an ever-present challenge for a small nonprofit like Cleveland Pride Band.
While currently relying on dues and donations, the band’s long-term vision includes eliminating financial barriers for members. To support this goal, they’ve received substantial grants like the Cuyahoga Arts & Culture award, which enables them to offer new educational programs and workshops, all on a shoestring budget but with an orchestra full of determination.
“Despite facing financial challenges common in instrumental music, we are dedicated to fostering equity and inclusion within the community,” Spec said.
This magic is about to get distinctly more audible at the band’s first concert of the 2024 season, “Rock Through the Ages.” Spanning over 80 years of popular rock tunes, this musical extravaganza will feature prominent artists like The Beatles, Journey, Queen, The Rolling Stones and more.
Under the direction of Cleveland Pride Band’s new artistic director Laura Joss, the show will also feature plenty of fun theatrical and visual components to keep audiences immersed. This will include a multi-media installation by artist Megan Young, as well as the debut of the Cleveland Pride Jazz Band, a full swing/big band that is sure to add a new dimension to the band’s already impressive repertoire.
Speck hopes audiences and band members alike will be able to connect to their halcyon days spent in the band-room, a space that represents so much for those who felt othered.
“For so many of the LGBTQ+ community, band was our first safe space growing up,” Speck said. “It is such a beautiful thing that as adults we can come back to music as our true authentic selves. ‘Rock Through the Ages’ will be a fun, high energy party celebrating this space.” 🔥
IGNITE ACTION
- “Rock Through the Ages” is scheduled for Saturday, April 20th, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Milton and Tamar Maltz Performing Arts Center. For additional details and ticket purchases, click here.
- The band actively welcomes new members, and those interested can send an email to info@clevelandprideband.org. For more information, visit their website at www.clevelandprideband.org and follow them on Instagram.
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