The 56 members of the Salmon Arm Community Band are busy preparing for their annual Christmas Concert which will be at the Salmon Arm First United Church at 7:30 p.m. on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015.
Directors Jim Johnston and Kelly Collins have been pleased to see the group growing in size this fall with the addition of several new and returning members.
The evening’s program includes a lot of seasonal music as well as other selections of a more general nature, says Johnston.
“Included, of course are some medleys of traditional Christmas favourites,” he says. “And in keeping with the Christmas spirit, or lack of, it’s rumoured that we can expect a visit from mean old Mr. Grinch along with a bevy of mystery guests, who wish to remain anonymous at this time.”
Johnston says classical composer Mozart is featured in two works, “a lovely little minuet” and the ever popular Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.
“Our percussion section figures prominently in an exciting work for a band titled Iron Heart, he says. “The audience will enjoy watching this section of the band hard at work.”
Staying with a cold and wintry theme, the band is excited about a great new work entitled Arctic Fire.
This piece, by Vancouver composer Robert Buckley, has caught the band’s imagination with its dramatic portrayals of the Arctic landscape, says Johnston.
The band has enjoyed playing other pieces by this talented writer and hopes the audience will share their enthusiasm.
Rounding out the program is the well- known hymn Jerusalem.
“And we must not forget to mention the always popular carol sing-along,” he adds. “Bring yourselves, and your voices, to the concert and enjoy listening to members of your community making music.”
