Oak Lawn Band’s first annual fundraiser held on March 7 entertained 200 participants with dinner, drinks, live chamber music performances and a “rate the band” competition that that delivered a come-from-behind win for a saxophone duo. The event helped the group collect $10,000 that will extend its participation in Dallas Pride 2024 other LGBTQIA activities during Pride month in June. 

The event was hosted by local drag legend Cassie Nova and featured eight chamber ensembles playing music from a variety of genres from jazz to baroque to pop. Groups included: the newly formed Oak Lawn Jazz Band; brass, clarinet, and French horn choirs; and a flute and tuba duet. Attendees had the opportunity to donate funds to their favorite group of the night, which was won in a surprise last-minute influx of contributions by a jazz saxophone duet titled “Tuxedo” played by Jason Murphy and Danny Cruz. “As this was our first gala dinner, we were thrilled with the outcome,” said Oak Lawn Band President Jonathan Harvey. ”People braved a pouring rain to come out and hear our incredibly talented members show off their skills in a smaller, intimate setting. And of funds raised will help us purchase additional instruments, uniforms, travel expenses, etc. to ensure a big presence at parades and events in Dallas and other cities.” 

Oak Lawn Band is an all-volunteer music group made up of members from all walks of life. As a community band, the group’s mission is to represent and support Dallas’ gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ally communities through music. Anyone who would like to take part as a musician, or auxiliary member (flag, rifle, baton, or banner carrier) or would like to help with logistical support can fill out a registration form at [link here]. 

About Oak Lawn Band: Since 1980, the Oak Lawn Band has served the DFW community performing both locally and nationally. As a founding member of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association (LGBA), the Oak Lawn Band has performed at the presidential inauguration ceremonies of Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, the Gay Games, the March on Washington, and other historic events. The group performs throughout the year as a marching and pep band for a number of parades including the Oak Cliff Mardi Gras Parade, and Pride Parades in Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Fort Worth. For more information, visit oaklawnband.org.