Conductor Larry Curtis Concert Park, named for the conductor who led the Long Beach Municipal Band for 27 years,  is being dedicated with a sign unveiling and Dixieland-style performance by some of the band’s members at 11 a.m. Oct. 30, at 5255 Paoli Way, where the Municipal Band regularly plays to large crowds during the summer months.

“The Long Beach Municipal Band is an important part of our city’s commitment to arts and culture,” said Mayor Robert Garcia in a statement. “It’s fitting that a section of Marine Stadium is being named for the late Mr. Larry Curtis, a person who long played such an important role in bringing music to our parks and greater community.”

Curtis died last year at age 82. His son, Kurt Curtis, is now the band’s conductor.

In addition to leading the Municipal Band, Curtis was conductor of bands at Cal State Long Beach for 25 years.

Naming the park by Marine Stadium for Curtis followed an item brought forth by 3rd District Councilwoman Suzie Price and approved by the City Council.

“I was so glad to be able to introduce the naming of this park after Larry Curtis,” Price said. “He infused so much joy and fun and enthusiasm into the community as conductor of the Muni Band, that adding his name to this park space is the perfect way to memorialize him.”

LB Municipal Band’s Larry Curtis was the model for local musicians and teachers