Sunday, I attended a friend’s band concert considering it obligatory support. It was not something I would have chosen, but I felt I should go since he mentioned it to me. I ended up having a fantastic time and now look forward to future concerts.
The performance was by The Imperial Band of South River at their building and music center, which I hadn’t heard of and is only about 10 minutes from my house. It was 2:00 on Sunday afternoon, and I set aside the time to attend. I figured it couldn’t be too bad. Well, it was great!
The brass band consisted of 38 performers and the conductor. Every type of brass instrument was represented. The band consists of 60 members, and they have a rehearsal once a week. There are also seven conductors, and the programs vary considerably. This Sunday, the program was “A Celtic Celebration,” with Richard Golazeski conducting. This seemed sensible since St. Patrick’s Day is next week. There were also two Scottish pieces, one of which was the overture from Brigadoon, which happens to be one of my most favorite Broadway shows. No, I did not see the original show on Broadway, but I saw many revivals, including many at The New York City Center with Sally Ann Howes (who played Eliza Doolittle in the first Broadway show I ever saw) and Edward Villella, whom I’ve seen many times at the New York City Ballet. I probably saw that show a half dozen times at The City Center. Anyway, there was a varied program with very familiar Irish music.
The point I want to make is that sometimes there are obligatory events you feel a need to attend, and they open your eyes to new experiences. Also, there might be a lot of activities in your community, but you sometimes need to seek out what’s there and then give them a try. It supports your neighbors, and you might even like them.
A side comment for my Irish friends is about my son Andy’s book, Ireland’s Professional Amateurs, about Irish sports. It also provides a lot of background on Irish history and culture and shows the important role Irish sports play in Ireland. You can buy it on Amazon, and if you like it as much as I did, I suggest you also buy a copy to give to each of your Irish friends who will be indebted to you for thinking of them with this interesting and informative book.
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