by KAREN SPECK
Special to the Sounder
When you hear and see the Community Band in concert Saturday, Dec. 18 at 2 pm, think about how music affects families. The Community Band, now in its 20th year, boasts musicians who are related either by blood or by marriage – because music unites everyone.
There are four married couples and two family units performing in the December Holiday Concert.
“I had not anticipated ever playing in the band with my wife, as she’s been a dancer all her life,” said clarinetist Bob Littlewood. “But she has a good sense of rhythm and I knew she could learn.” His wife Patricia joined three years ago as a percussionist.
“What I like best about participating with the Community Band is the non-verbal communication,” said Patricia. “Music, as in dance, is not spoken but the communication through the music and participation with other musicians is wonderful.”
Pianist Ron Myers shares similar sentiment, saying, “What a privilege it is to share music with my daughter Tammy and granddaughter Kailley.” Tammy is a familiar face at the Island Market check-out stands, and Kailley is a senior in high school. Ron plays piano and percussion, Tammy clarinet, and Kailley flute and saxophone.
“It certainly was not planned, though it is wonderful that we all play different instruments,” Ron exclaimed.
Band secretary Karen Speck was thrilled when husband Ken decided to drum with the group.
“I’ve always had a love for music and playing with the Community Band gives me the chance to play with some very, very good musicians,” remarked Ken.
The band has always made its mission to have “serious fun”. Under the direction of Joe Babcock, the musicians strive to improve as well as provide entertaining concerts. The board feels the band’s mission is to reach out to children and seniors and therefore is trying something new this month: a 2 p.m. matinee concert, so that more families with children and seniors who don’t care to drive after dark might attend.
Another strongly held belief of the band is that the holidays are a time for sharing.
The Dec. 18 concert at Orcas Center is free of charge. If the audience would like to make a donation, that’s fine. Otherwise, the band doesn’t want money to be a reason for not attending. Everyone is welcome to hear the band perform holiday tunes, enjoy a carols sing-a-long and join the band after the concert for a free dessert party. Music is for everyone – especially during the holidays.
