Question on the origin of a saying

[Captain_Howie]

In western PA older folks often say “it was snowing to beat the band.”

I have heard this since I was a kid and obviously understand what it means but have been unable to discover the origin. Anyone know? Thanks

[Rube_E.Tewesday]

This may be of interest.

[aldiboronti]

@Captain Howie

In western PA older folks often say “it was snowing to beat the band.”

I have heard this since I was a kid and obviously understand what it means but have been unable to discover the origin. Anyone know? Thanks

It comes from playing music loudly enough to drown out the rest of the band.

Here’s OED, with definition and first cite.

band, n, 3

b. Colloq. phrases: when the band begins to play, when matters become serious; to beat the band, lit. so as to drown the noise made by the band; hence, to exceed, surpass, or beat everything.

1897 C. M. FLANDRAU Harvard Episodes 223, I was on the box-seat driving, you know,lickety-split, to beat the band.