The ring and jingle of Christmas bells is often enough to invoke the spirit of Christmas and the cheer that comes with it.
With the upcoming Lake Concert Band Holiday Concert, music and Christmas lovers alike will be enticed with the holiday jingle and jams made with harmonies from woodwind, brass, percussion and other concert band instruments during the free concert from 7 to 8:30 p.m. today at the Mount Dora Music Hall, 520 N. Baker St. Mt. Dora.
“I think it will sound quite majestic when the band plays with its full sound,” said Betsy Chandler, president of the band.
During the concert, which is returning for its 20th year, the band will play Christmas favorites — including, “A Christmas Festival,” “White Christmas,” “Hark! The Herald Tubas Sing,” and more.
While admission is free, the band is accepting donations to benefit the Lake Cares Food Pantry.
“It’s our way of giving back to the community. One year we were able to donate around $600, but the amount we give depends on how many people we have in the audience,” Chandler said.
Originally formed in 1989, the first iteration of the Lake Concert Band consisted of 12 musicians. Today, there are more than 80 members ranging from high school students to musicians over 90 years old.
The requirements to join the band include being able to read sheet music, having your own instrument, and attending weekly rehearsals.
“We rehearse for two hours every week,” Chandler said.
One thing that hasn’t changed for the band is its mission to be an outlet for residents to practice their musical skills and provide music entertainment to the public.
For those unable to attend today’s concert, there will be a chance to be tune in to future performances from the band.
On Feb. 8, people are invited to bring a blanket, chairs, snacks and refreshments for the band’s outdoor concert at the Leesburg Public Library, 100 E. Main St, Leesburg.
The show will be in the library’s amphitheater.
The band will also join the community of Eustis on Feb. 17 for the 123rd Annual Georgefest celebrating George Washington’s Birthday at the Alice McClelland Bandshell, 250 Ferran Park Dr., Eustis. The free event will happen from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
“We are ready and excited to perform for the community,” Chandler said. “It nice when we get a chance to perform for the public.”
For more information about upcoming Lake Concert Band events, visit lakeconcertband.com.
Staff writer Brea Jones can be reached at 352-753-1119, ext. 5414, or brea.jones@thevillagesmedia.com.
