Libraries are good for more than just finding a new book.
Local libraries are a great place to find free, fun programing tailored to different seasons.
The Leesburg Public Library, 100 E Main St, Leesburg, has hosted a handful of holiday themed programing to bring the Leesburg community together to celebrate in a festive environment.
“In addition to the typical music show, the holiday performances at the library become a space to enhance knowledge,” said Deb Bussinger, the Leesburg Library program coordinator. “Attendees are learning about the history of the songs or the inspiration behind original scores.”
Bringing in an audience ranging from 50 to 100 people on average, performances at the library typically fall on Fridays and Saturdays around 1 p.m., as it is most convenient time for the community, according to the library.
“These events aim to celebrate the season through music, foster a sense of connection among residents, and provide opportunities for local artists to share their talents,” Bussinger added. “It’s a way for the library to contribute to the cultural and social enrichment of the Leesburg area while spreading holiday cheer.”
On Dec. 6, the library held the “Jane Rosenbohm – A Guitar for Christmas” holiday program, where Rosenbohm — who has performed at taught guitar professionally for over 60 years — taught the audience how to increase their appreciation for music by knowing what to listen for.
She explained three music theories — monophonic, a single music line or single melody; homophonic, the movement of parts in the same rhythm as the melody; and polyphonic, meaning playing layers of music keys to make parts blends together.
“I show them the techniques of playing the guitar. There are all these things that the musician does on a subconscious level and the audience is listen to all these different aspects of music come together,” she said.
To get the audience to have a hands-on example of how these music theories come together, Rosenbohm included an activity in her show with bells. Each audience member gets their own bell to ring to the beat of a holiday song by Rosenbohm.
“Sometimes it works so well and sometimes it doesn’t,” Rosenbohm said with a laugh. “That’s the fun of it. They are going to be a success no matter what because it’s just about them participating but it’s fun to watch and listen.”
In case you missed the previous holiday performances at the library, there is still time to attend the finals performances of the year.
On Dec. 20 from 1 to 2 p.m. the library will host soloist Mollie Magee for her “A Holiday Musical” show. During the performance, Magee performs classical Christmas playing the flute.
The next day, also from 1 to 2 p.m., the library will host “Shannon Rae and Daniel the Saxman – Holiday Duets.”
As the library’s program coordinator, Bussinger said being able to sit in on the performances has been one of the best job perks as she gets to see the expressions of delight across the audience.
“There’s something magical about live music that creates a shared emotional experience. The talent of the musicians, combined with the library’s intimate setting, makes each performance feel personal and heartwarming,” she said. “It’s wonderful to see the library transform into a space for celebration and creativity.”
Bussinger added that other audience members have shared their thanks for having access to “free, high-quality entertainment in their community,” crediting the financial sponsorship from the Friends of the Leesburg Library, making programs free for everyone.
“Many have shared how much they appreciate the cozy and inclusive atmosphere of the library, as well as the diversity of performances, which range from traditional carols to jazz renditions of holiday classics,” Bussinger said. “Feedback often highlights how these events bring joy and help people feel more connected during the holiday season.”
To register for the Dec. 20 to Dec. 21 performances at the library, visit mylakelibrary.org.
Staff writer Brea Jones can be reached at 352-753-1119, ext. 5414, or brea.jones@thevillagesmedia.com.
