IHCB was founded in 2000 by Allison Russell (Allen) and started out with around 12 musicians. They practiced wherever they could find space and ultimately ended up practicing in the music room in the Fine Arts Building at the community college. After almost two years of playing music with many Inver Hills Community College musicians, the Community Band merged with their band, which was called the Inver Hills Symphonic Band. In August of 2002, the name changed to the Inver Hills Community Band, uniting the names of the fledgling Inver Grove Heights Community Band and the existing Inver Hills Symphonic Band.
The Conductor’s baton was passed from John Salveson to Mike Nelson. In September of 2002, Thomas Morris took over as Musical Director. Under his leadership, IHCB grew into a high-quality ensemble with a strong and dedicated membership. His commitment to thoughtful programming and challenging yet rewarding repertoire created an environment where musicians stayed engaged for decades. He also built a diverse music library and helped expand our audiences at Christmas, Spring, and Summer Pops concerts year after year. Tom also had a long career of teaching instrumental music for 42 years in the Duluth and South St. Paul public schools.
After 23 incredible years as Music Director—Tom Morris retired at the end of 2025.
Starting spring of 2026, Doug Hart became our new Music Director and Conductor. Doug brings 40 years of experience in instrumental music education. He taught in Iowa before spending 33 years in Eagan, Minnesota, directing ensembles including Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, and teaching brass students. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music and has completed graduate coursework at Minnesota State University–Mankato. Doug also remains active as a performer, playing tuba with the Rosemount Community Band.
