Tuesday night marked the end of an era with longtime Mid-York Shining Brass Band director Wilbur Raville’s retirement following a performance at the United Church of Christ, after more than two decades as the band’s leader. Raville – who took over as the band’s director in 1989 – was instrumental in re-modeling the group into a traditional-style British brass band. Mid-York Shining Brass Band trombonist Lee Wilhelm called it a “challenging music” that was “brilliantly pleasing to musicians and audiences” alike. As director, Raville selected and purchased the band’s music, recruited and rehearsed musicians, and supplemented the band with professional players when necessary. His efforts, said baritone horn instrumentalist Craig Lawson, can not easily be measured.

“Red has been an influence in the music enjoyment of citizens in the Chenango County area, and beyond, since 1958,” he added.