LCCB shares its love of music with local high schools

Music lovers can look forward to a treat during Feb. 21 and 23. On those dates, the Lowcountry Community Band (LCCB) will share concert stages with several local high school bands who are preparing for their upcoming Concert Performance Assessments (CPAs).

On Feb. 21 at May River High School, the music starts at 6:30 p.m., featuring the school’s band, directed by Deborah Hamner, and the H.E. McCracken Middle School Band, directed by Matthew Dickler.

At 7 p.m., the LCCB presents its Valentine-themed program, “With Love,” featuring “A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch” medley, arranged by Michael Brown; “The Beatles: Love” medley, arranged by Jay Bocock; “Highlights from Porgy and Bess,” arranged by Douglas Wagner; “Nessun Dorma” from Turandot by Giacomo Puccini, arranged by Merlin Patterson; “And May We Always Cherish,” by Benjamin Dean Taylor; and “The Bride Elect,” a march by John Philip Sousa. The LCCB is led by Conductor/Ar- tistic Director David Carbone and Associate Conductor Debra Hamner.

Then, on Feb. 24 at Bluffton High School, the music starts at 6:30 p.m., featuring the school’s Jazz Band and Symphonic Band, directed by Anthony Grandquist. At 7 p.m., the LCCB will repeat its Valentine-themed program as above.

There is no charge for either of the concerts.

“Our concert is entitled ‘With Love’ as a complimentary closing of a love letter from the band to the members’ families, loved ones, and our LCCB supporters,” said LCCB Conductor David Carbone. “The musical selections are in the spirit of the month of the Valentine, featuring themes associated with love from past Broadway hits and major revues. We are honored to share concert stages with the town of Bluffton’s high school and middle school band programs as they prepare for their upcoming Concert Performance Assessments.”

The LCCB is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of South Carolina Beaufort. LCCB provides an opportunity for musicians of all ages and abilities to play instrumental music together for enjoyment as well as to perform for the community.

Students and adults of any age, as well as OLLI members, can join the band. LCCB is 100% self-sustaining and receives no state or local funding. Donations are welcome, and are used for buying new music and equipment, repairing instruments, and rental of venue space for performances where required.

For more information, visit ollilccb.com.

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