COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Season of Music Kicks Off with the Columbia Community Concert Band
This week in Columbia, there’s a buzz of excitement in the air as the Columbia Community Concert Band gears up for its 44th season! The band held its first practice on Thursday evening, welcoming musicians from all walks of life, and if you’ve played in high school, college, military, or community bands, they want you to join in the fun. All you need is your instrument and a passion for music!
Meet the Conductor
Conductor B.J. Brazier shared his enthusiasm for the band, saying, “They’re a great group of people, great musicians. They’ve been well trained—some of them, of course, with their background being in the band, as well. And so, it’s just, again, just a fulfillment for me of making music with people that want to make music.” It’s clear that B.J. loves being a part of this talented group!
A Rich History
The band, founded in 1981, was born out of a desire to create a space where music lovers of all ages could share their passion. One of its cofounders, William Ackerman, is still actively participating, playing the oboe. He reminisced, “It’s just fun to play, and like I said, I’ve been playing since 1956. That’s a long time. It’s hard to quit cold turkey, let’s put it that way.” His commitment to music is truly inspiring!
Concerts for Everyone
This community band is not just about practice; they also focus on performances. Each season, they hold five concerts featuring a wide range of genres, ensuring there is something to keep every audience member engaged and entertained. B.J. mentioned, “There are people who play music for the enjoyment, and so it’s not a job per se. Yes, it’s a responsibility, but it is something that is inspiring for myself and then hopefully inspiring to them to keep them playing music.”
Joining the Band
If you’re interested in joining in, the band operates as a nonprofit and has a modest annual fee of just $20 per season. That’s a small price to pay for the joy of making music and being part of a vibrant community!
Upcoming Concerts
Mark your calendars because the first concert of the season is quickly approaching! It’ll be held on Saturday, October 5. Make sure to come out and support this remarkable group of musicians, as they showcase their talents and share their love for music with the community.
The Columbia Community Concert Band embodies the spirit of camaraderie and artistic expression. Whether you’re a musician looking to join or an audience member eager to enjoy some great performances, there’s a place for you in this welcoming community. So grab your instrument or your favorite chair, and let’s celebrate the magic of music together this season!
