Columbia Community Concert Band Starts 44th Season with a Bang!
Columbia, S.C. — Music lovers rejoice! The Columbia Community Concert Band is back and kicking off its 44th season this year, inviting musicians to join in the fun. Last Thursday evening marked the first practice of the season, where familiar faces reunited, and new ones joined in to create the vibrant sounds that the community has cherished for decades.
Who Can Join?
This welcoming community band is open to anyone who has experience playing in high school, college, military, or community bands. Whether you’ve picked up a trumpet, flute, horn, or even a tuba, all you need is your instrument and a passion for music. According to Conductor B.J. Brazier, the atmosphere is not only welcoming but also filled with talented individuals. He shared, “They’re a great group of people, great musicians. They’ve been well trained — some of them, of course, with their background being in the band, as well. And so, it’s just, again, just a fulfillment for me of making music with people that want to make music.”
A Journey Through the Years
The concert band was founded back in 1981 by a group of passionate music lovers wanting to create a space where individuals of all ages could share their love for music. One of the co-founders, William Ackerman, still plays with the band to this day, entertaining audiences on his oboe. He reminisced, “It’s just fun to play, and, like I said, I’ve been playing since 1956. That’s a long time! It’s hard to quit cold turkey, let’s put it that way.” His enthusiasm is infectious, showing just how dedicated community members are to keeping the spirit of music alive.
What to Expect This Season
This season promises to be exciting! The band will perform five concerts featuring a broad array of genres that aim to engage and delight the audience. From classical masterpieces to contemporary hits, there’s something for everyone. Conductor Brazier emphasized that playing in the band is all about enjoyment and personal growth, saying, “There are people who play music for the enjoyment, and so it’s not a job per se. Yes, it’s a responsibility, but it’s something that is inspiring for myself and then hopefully inspiring to them to keep them playing music and make them want to play better and be the best they can be with it.”
Getting Involved
For those who are interested in joining this vibrant community of musicians, the annual fee is just $20 per season! It’s an affordable way to connect with others who share your love for music. Plus, who can resist the thrill of performing in front of an audience?
Mark Your Calendars!
The first concert of the season is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5. This is a perfect opportunity to gather friends and family to enjoy a delightful night filled with wonderful music from talented local musicians. Whether you’re a performer or simply a fan of music, there’s a spot for you in the Columbia Community Concert Band.
In Conclusion
So, if you’re in Columbia and want to dive into the world of music, consider checking out the Columbia Community Concert Band. It’s a fantastic way to stay involved in music, meet new people, and simply have a good time. Let’s support our community band and celebrate the joy of music together!
