Lafayette Band Names Beth Clarke Its Music Director

The Lafayette Band of North Kingstown has appointed Bethany Clarke as its new music director. Clarke succeeds Joseph Pelosi, who recently completed his 50th year as the band’s leader. The Lafayette Band is a nonprofit community concert band that has served Rhode Island for more than 125 years.

“We are pleased to welcome Beth Clarke as our music director,” said John Smith, president of the Lafayette Band. “Beth brings a wealth of experience and leadership qualities to the position. We are fortunate to have such a highly qualified director to follow the esteemed Joe Pelosi, who has passed the baton after a remarkable half-century career as our director. Joe’s amazing dedication and longevity enabled the Lafayette Band to continue its historic run of providing musical enjoyment and community enrichment. His remarkable leadership, commitment and hard work will surely be missed.”

Clarke has served as conductor of the Jamestown Community Band, music director at The Prout School in Wakefield, and interim director of the Lafayette and Wakefield Bands. She earned two bachelors degrees in music as an honor student at the University of Rhode Island and is a certified music teacher in Rhode Island and Connecticut. A skilled saxophonist, Clarke also gives private instrumental and voice lessons.

“Fittingly, Beth continues the Lafayette Band’s deep tradition of music directors with ties to North Kingstown and North Kingstown High School,” said Smith. “She, as well as her parents, are former NKHS students.”

Clarke is scheduled to make her first appearance as the Lafayette Band’s music director at the “Festival of Lights Concert” in Wickford on December 6.

The Lafayette Band provides free summer and holiday concerts, entertains at local long-term care facilities, and performs at municipal and state patriotic and commemorative events, while offering adults and older students from southeastern New England the opportunity to pursue their love of music. Current members come from 16 communities in Rhode Island, and new members are always welcomed. For more information, visit www.lafayette-band.com.