About Us

The Minnesota Freedom band grew out of a grass roots community effort in 1982 by gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and allied individuals who wanted to create a stronger sense of community through the sharing of music. We work for social justice and human rights by providing a positive, community building experience for our LGBTQIA+ members and by engaging the larger community through concerts and other outreach efforts. We have been supported for over four decades because we provide safe, positive places for all people to gather, create music and provide mutual support.

 

Vision & Mission Statement

The Minnesota Freedom Band is a Twin Cities-based, non-profit community band that celebrates and uplifts LGBTQIA+ musicians. We are committed to representing and honoring our communities through quality performances, opportunities to improve musicianship, and building relationships within and among our various communities.

 

Our Core Values

Community
We build positive community connections by providing a safe and welcoming environment, connecting through music, and being visible and proud representatives of our LGBTQIA+ communities.

Integrity
We strive to create compassionate, safe spaces where we hold each other accountable for our words and actions.

Diversity
We recognize and celebrate the different backgrounds, skills, and lived experiences our members bring to the organization.

Musical Growth
We encourage and facilitate both individual and collective growth in musicianship through opportunities to rehearse and perform together.

 

 

The Minnesota Freedom Band is a Charitable Organization registered in the State of Minnesota and recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Corporation.

 


 

 

 

 

 

Board of Directors

2024 -2025

President.....................................Betsy Preston

Vice President................................John Hering

Secretary...................................Audrey Duncan

Treasurer...........................................Erick Crail

Librarian, Concert Band...............Alex Strysick

Librarian, Jazz Band.........................KP Powell

Member-at-Large.........................Justin Koester

Member-at-Large.........................Laura Holland

Concert Band Conductor *......Bethany Higgins

Freedom Jazz Conductor *.............Mike Haase

* Ex-Officio Voting Board Members

 

 

Cart