6-30-2026 5:05am

Director's Big Band Brings Their Signature Sound to Boyertown's Freedom Fest

Lesley Misko Editor

by Nancy Swavely Mest

The July 4th Holiday is right around the corner! It’s a special celebration this year as our nation is turning 250 years old and the Boyertown Historical Society will be hosting a FREEDOM FEST ! The Director’s Big Band will be part of this event as it hosts a concert, America 250: “In the Mood,” to celebrate our nation's birthday.

The Director’s Big Band reflects an era in America's history by bringing the sound, style, and energy of classic big band music to the stage with live horns, rich arrangements, and timeless favorites from the swing era and beyond. For this performance the band will be featuring beloved songs including “In the Mood,” “Satin Doll,” “Moonlight Serenade,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” “New York, New York,” “Rock This Town,” and many more.

Whether you come to dance, listen, or simply enjoy an afternoon of live music, The Directors Big Band delivers a fun, polished, and nostalgic experience for all ages. This group is under the direction of Jim Dugan. “Please, come out, cool off, and enjoy some of the best music our nation has to offer,” says band member Tom McHugh,

See us live at the Keystone Firehouse (downstairs) on Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 2:00–5:00 PM.

This is a family friendly event and is handicapped accessible. The venue is air conditioned and there will be refreshments/food available. In addition to the music, there will be a basket raffle featuring items from many local businesses as well as 50/50 tickets. Admission is $10.00. Tickets are available at the door, at Aunt Nannie’s Bake Shop, 913 Route 100 in Bechtelsville and in advance by emailing at DirectorsBandBoyertown@gmail.com.

Follow The Directors Big Band on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected. For information and questions, please call Jayne McHugh at 610-781-8859

Nancy Swavely Mest is a longtime local music educator, graduate of the Boyertown Area Senior High School class of 1978, and lifetime member of the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit. She serves as an assistant to the band captain and directs the Ceremonial Band at many local community events. Mest also performs with "Finely Fluted," a flute ensemble that serves many of the local churches in the area. When she's not making music, she enjoys gardening and sports, as well.