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Full-page ad appearing in the August 7, 1941 issue of the Milepost

NATIONAL PRAISE FOR AMES BANDSHELL
From a 1941 Ames Municipal Band poster

”The Ames Band Shell, and all the associated accommodations, including rehearsal room, dressing rooms, library and office rooms, is the finest structure of its kind in the United States.” – Dr. A.A. Harding, director of bands of the University of Illinois.

“On the return trip of 5,000 miles through the United States and Canada, with the Sioux Falls High School Band, and having played concerts in many metropolitan cities, including the Band Shell in New York City, where the famous Goldman Band plays, I believe the Ames Band Shell is the finest one of its kind I have ever been in.” – Sioux Falls, South Dakota editor.

“The Ames Band Plant is recognized as the finest in America according to Cliff Bainum (director of bands at Northwestern University), William Revelli (director of the State University Band at Ann Arbor, Michigan), and many other national authorities.”
 
 

Ames architect William Lee was commissioned by the Ames Foundation in May of 2004 to create this watercolor of the Ames Bandshell.

While quality materials and workmanship characterized the original construction, it seemed apparent by 1995 that the 70-year-old bandshell needed a major overhaul to survive.  Water infiltration, masonry deterioration and mechanical deficiencies needed to be remedied to prevent eventual closure of the facility.

To address these problems the Ames Foundation, a private, non-profit volunteer group, took on the project.  The goal was to restore the building, maintaining its original design and character, and to showcase it with new landscaping.  Groundbreaking took place on April 29, 2005.

RESTORATION FEATURES

• Perimeter drainage and waterproofing
• Masonry repair or replacement, cleaning and moisture proofing
• New flat stage floor providing performance flexibility
• Restored grilles at speaker kiosks
• Restored original entry stairs
• Exterior painting
• Electrical and mechanical upgrades
• Site and security lighting
• New removable risers
• Landscaping and walkways
• Night lighting of shell