Branch County Community is experiencing a shortage of musicians
The Branch County Community Band was scheduled to give a fall concert tonight at Tibbits Opera House, but had to cancel due to a shortage of musicians.
Before COVID, the group had about 35 members under the leadership of Marion Sanderson. But not enough musicians returned after the closing. Some of their high school musicians graduated, others took on jobs that made it impossible to practice for the fall concert, band member Karen Hargreave said.
Also, due to pandemic precautions, it was mid-October before they could return to the music room at Quincy High School for Monday night practice.
“At that point, we only had six weeks of rehearsal before the scheduled concert in Tibbits,” said Hargreave.
After not playing for almost two years and fewer musicians available, it was clear that the fall concert was not going to take place.
But all is not lost. They are looking for new members and rehearsals begin in January for a concert on April 1 on the Tibbits stage.
Musicians of all instruments are welcome and they especially need those who play percussion, clarinet, trombone and saxophone.
Why join the group?
It allows musicians who played in high school or college to continue playing and performing. The music is stimulating and engaging for members while also meeting the artistic and cultural needs of the community, said Hargreave.
Need more reasons to join?
- It’s a good way to maintain your musical skills while doing something for the community.
- It’s funny.
- It is difficult to play new or difficult music.
- It’s better than watching TV.
- It’s a great way to meet new people who share an interest in music.
- Music lessons are free music.
- Playing music reduces stress.
- A study of adults who have played music in recent years reports that playing a musical instrument keeps the brain “in tune.”
“So take this instrument out of the closet and join the Branch County Community Band,” Hargreave said.
Rehearsals take place Monday evenings in the Orchestra Hall of Quincy High School. Call Karen Hargreave at (517) 639-4595 for more information.
