(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — When you think of the Naperville Municipal Band, you think of Ron Keller. He's been a member for more than 70 years and served as director for the last 57 seasons.
Keller recently announced his retirement and said he plans to spend more time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Looking back at his career, the 84-year-old said he’s never worked a day in his life.
“When I was 5 years old, I wanted to play the tuba; I got to do it,” he said. “When I was in eighth grade, I wanted to become a band director; I got to do it. When I was a junior in college, I decided that, some day, I wanted to lead the Naperville band; I got to do that.”
Under Keller’s leadership, the Naperville Municipal Band was awarded the Sudler Silver Scroll Award, presented by the John Philip Sousa Foundation, in 1991. The award recognizes excellence in community bands — and the Naperville Municipal Band was only the fifth to be recognized at the time.
Until 1993, Keller worked as the K–12 Coordinator of Music for School District 203, and he also directed the bands at Jefferson Junior High School.
Keller said he's leaving the Naperville Municipal Band in good hands with Emily Binder.
The band will hold its final concert of the summer season on Aug. 10 at Central Park.
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