The Orcas Island Community Band will present its spring concert on Saturday, June 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Orcas Center. The program will feature lively American dance arrangements, and movie and big band classics. In a departure from its traditional Sousa selections, the band will play several marches by European composers.
Conductor Joe Babcock noted that European marches are generally performed at a more relaxed tempo than is typical of the American marches that the band plays for the Fourth of July. Babcock speculated that Europeans were perhaps wise enough not to rush headlong into battle.
The spring selections are varied, invigorating and fun for both audience and performers. Several soloists will delight listeners. The sophisticated program has challenged the musicians. Working on the tricky “Suite of Old American Dances,” which includes rhythmic and melodic twists, has made flutist Mary Ann Slabaugh exclaim, “Holy Moley!”
Band board member Moana Kutsche said Babcock asks members to stretch their skills, while his background as a music teacher allows him to provide musicians with the tools they need to reach those higher goals.
On the horizon for the Community Band are three of its favorite events. Orcas Island will single-handedly represent American community bands at the Ladner, British Columbia, Bandfest on June 10. The Orcas Band’s debut at Ladner in 2009 was a highlight of the year for many members. Listeners seeking Sousa can hear traditional American marches at the July 4 fire works and the community parade on July 7.
The 40-member band includes a wide range of players, from seasoned semi-pros to eager middle school students. They welcome community musicians to join them in the fall. The band rehearses on Monday nights in the school music room, starting up in September. Many members who come to the band to revive long-dormant skills are surprised and pleased at how quickly their chops return, and how much they enjoy rekindling their love of playing music with other enthusiasts.
Community Band concerts are free, open to the public and fun for all ages.
