Janice Cummings - Commissioner
A native of Clinton, Iowa, Janice Cummings' interest in music began at age five when she began piano lessons. Music remained a hobby while she taught and coached in the public schools of Iowa and Illinois for over 30 years. She has studied clarinet, saxophone, and percussion. In 1995, Janice and her husband Dick both retired from teaching and moved to Cedar Rapids, as did their son and his family. Two grandchildren also have been involved in music at McKinley Middle School and Washington High School. Amateur musical involvement in Cedar Rapids began with the Marion Community Band and Marion Big Band. Fifteen years ago, Janice and Jack Hicks started the "Dixie Notes Plus" big band, which plays for charities such as Camp Courageous, senior citizen organizations, church activities, and other social organizations. Janice is also a member of the New Horizons Band, Mt. Vernon Community Band, Rockwell-Collins Concert Band, and occasionally the Kirkwood Concert Band. She has also directed a five-octave handbell choir for 14 years. Janice says, "Being an amateur musician is an enjoyable way to spends one's retirement, and the opportunities in Cedar Rapids are abundant!" Janice has been on the Band Commission since June of 2010 and has enjoyed work with the talented people who make the Municipal Band possible. "There is nothing more 'Iowa' than attending a first class band concert in the park on a summer evening," she says. Janice encourages everyone in the Cedar Rapids area to attend as many summer concerts as possible. She notes, "Where else can you experience a fun and free evening of enjoyable music played by a group of the best musicians in the state of Iowa? It's music for all generations, so bring your lawn chairs and some refreshments, and experience the joy of music!"