All about the Scottville Clown Band -- "The Big Noise from Scottville"
When you see the Scottville Clown Band, you're amused by their colorful attire and crazy antics. When you hear them play, you're amazed at their extraordinary talent. They've been entertaining crowds in Michigan for over 100 years, with no sign of slowing down. Perhaps their best performances are during the summer parades, with "The Stripper" being the favorite number. The horns, cymbals, and drums give the Clown Band their other name—"The Big Noise from Scottville."
HISTORY
In 1903, a musical group of Scottville merchants dressed up as hillbillies and began entertaining at local carnivals. Their popularity grew until World War II called its members away and the group disbanded. In 1947, a local businessman, Ray Schulte, resurrected the group, and to this day, the Scottville Clown Band continues to bring smiles to countless faces. The city of Scottville is located ten miles east of Ludington, with about 1,200 residents. This small town has certainly been put on the map through the notoriety of the Scottville Clown Band.
WHO ARE THESE GUYS?
Clown Band members come from all over Michigan and over 14 other states, including Florida, New York, Tennessee and California. They represent all walks of life, from police officers and farmers to doctors, bankers, and disc jockeys. The members are represented by a board of directors, a group of people that make decisions on band operations and policies.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Their charitable contributions include funding and maintaining both the Scottville Clown Band Shell and the Museum of Music at Historic White Pine Village. One of the primary goals of the Scottville Clown Band is to provide scholarships for students accepted to summer programs for any of the performing arts, including vocal music, theater, or instrumental music. Each year money is given out to over 30 students, helping them with costs to places like Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp and Interlochen. The scholarship recipients are invited to play with the Scottville Clown Band in early summer at a concert performed at Waterfront Park in Ludington.
Funny guys who make some serious music—our lives are a little richer, thanks to the Scottville Clown Band.
Go to: Scottville Clown Band for more information. If you are a student and would like to apply for a music scholarship, click here to download a scholarship request form.
THE 2012 LOCAL SUMMER SCHEDULE WILL BE POSTED AS IT BECOMES AVAILABLE.
More of Ludington's Very Own...
Lakeshore Parrothead Club - This lively group of characters promote friendship and raise money annually for the Alzheimers Association.
Friday Night Live - Held four consecutive Friday nights in late July and early August, it features food, music, and entertainment.
Baby Badger - This miniature replica of the S.S. Badger carferry is a welcome sight at Ludington's summer events.
James Ludington - The founder of this lakeshore city never actually resided here, but contributed greatly to its growth.
Ludington's Freedom Festival - Held during July 4th, it's one of the great, old fashioned festivals, complete with parade and fireworks.
Ludington Lakestride - Every June, runners and walkers take place in this popular race, which runs through the Ludington State Park.
The Colorful Murals of Ludington - Take a walking tour of Ludington and view the beautiful murals that adorn area businesses, each telling its story of Ludington's history.
Ludington Pumped Storage Project - Built in 1973, this 842 acre reservoir can generate up to 1,872 megawatts of electricity.
Waterfront Park - Set between the city's two marinas, this park features a playground, sculptures, tables, and a great view of the carferry.
Scottville Clown Band - These zany group of professionals are known throughout the country for their comedy and their musical ability.
The Sculptures of Waterfront Park - Eight unique sculptures are scattered throughout the park, which reflect Ludington's history.
Western Michigan Fair - Mason County's fair, held near the end of July, features a midway, harness horse racing, and 4-H displays.
Historic White Pine Village - Various buildings from Mason County's past are set upon 23 acres that overlook Lake Michigan.
Ludington Area Center for the Arts - Now settled into an historic church in the downtown area, it's the venue for writer's workshops, concerts, and classes.
Sandcastles Children's Museum - This summer museum attracts thousands each summer, with interesting exhibits and programs for kids of all ages.
Father Jacques Marquette Shrine - This white cross that overlooks Lake Michigan marks the spot where Father Marquette died in 1675.
