The first time the Marine Band was scheduled to perform at Mount Pleasant High School in Wilmington, Del., sponsored by band director Brian Drumbore, it was at the end of the 2012 National Concert Tour. As Hurricane Sandy barreled her way up the East coast, the impending bad weather forced the cancellation of the concert. A year later, the Marine Band made plans to return to Wilmington to perform. With no hurricanes in sight, excitement grew as preparations for the performance were finalized. But on Oct. 1, 2013, the federal government shutdown necessitated the concert to be canceled a second time.

But the third time will be the charm at 2 p.m., April 19, when “The President’s Own” comes back for a special performance. With clear weather and no government shutdown on the horizon, performers, promoters, and the public are in for a treat well worth the wait. Assistant Director Major Michelle A. Rakers will lead the band in a concert titled, “Movie Night,” including John Williams’ Theme from Schindler’s List and the Main Title from Star Wars, Paul Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, and the “Soliloquy” from Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s Carousel featuring baritone vocalist Master Sgt. Kevin Bennear.

Drumbore was not discouraged by the scheduling setbacks. “‘The President’s Own’ is such a part of both our national heritage and our modern concert band history that it’s a tremendous opportunity to host this performance,” he said. “It’s a great way to expose kids to ‘band after high school’ and for parents to be exposed to the professional music world.” He went on to say that having a professional ensemble that performs for free is a huge opportunity for the parents and community at large to witness firsthand the power of music and the continued relevance of music education in the schools.

“There isn’t a better chance to see the best concert band in the world for the discount price of free. Please take advantage of this great opportunity to bring your family to see a great concert,” he said.

The concert is free and tickets are not required. The Mount Pleasant High School Auditorium is located at 5201 Washington Street Extension in Wilmington, Del. For more info visit www.brandywineschools.org/mphs.