The Village Jazz Band Avoids the Storm

Andrew Jones,Neighbor

Posted Mon, Jun 25, 2012 at 3:03 am ET|Updated Mon, Jun 25, 2012 at 12:05 pm ET

Sunday night people stayed dry and listened to the smooth sounds of the Village Jazz Band while Rockville was getting drenched. The Lawn Theatre -- newly renamed the Dr. Gordon W. Bowie Music Pavillion -- hosted the jazz ensemble while Village residents gathered for the fourth weekend to picnic on the grass.

Formed 40 years ago, the Village Jazz Band was founded by Montgomery Village musicians with a common love for dixieland jazz. Leader Norm Berk kept the tunes flowing even with the threat of storms on the horizon.

Last week the pavilion was renamed the Dr. Gordon W. Bowie Music Pavilion in honor of the recent passing of longtime Montgomery Village Community Band music director Dr. Bowie. The plaque hung proud above the Village Band spinoff while they played.

The children were dancing and running around and everyone brought something to munch on. Next week is the 19th Street Band starting at 6 p.m. Sunday. Free parking is located behind Watkins Mill Elementary School.