Out & About: Ligonier’s summer Sunday concert series enters 73rd season
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When you find a good thing, stick with it.
It’s an idea illustrated by the Sunday Evening Band Concerts in Ligonier, a series that entered its 73rd season on June 4 with a performance by the Allegheny Brass Band.
“We come every Sunday,” said Gwen Maurer, who traveled from Johnstown with her husband, Randy. “We love it here.”
The Maurers joined a large crowd of music lovers assembled on the Diamond and a portion of the surrounding street as the band set up in front of Ligonier Town Hall.
Based at North Hills High School and directed by Stephen Baldanzi, the band describes itself as “the greater Pittsburgh area’s finest amateur British-style brass band.”
Members of all ages range from college students to retirees, representing all walks of life.
Movie music was the evening’s theme.
The performance opened with the brass ensemble’s signature piece, “Men of Harlech,” a regimental march historically associated with Wales and featured in the 1964 movie, “Zulu.”
Concert-goers received a welcome from Ligonier Mayor Ormond “Butch” Bellas and Amy Beitel, executive director of the Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the series.
Seen on the Diamond: Bill and Carol Sipe, Bill and Beverly Howe, John and Linda Dickson, Rita Horrell, Bob and Ina Smithley, Tom and Brenda George, Kent Snyder, Evelyn Lemmon, Gay Wasserman, Jim and Karen O’Connor, Delcina Taylor, Nancy Findley, Russ Fenton, Carol Fenton, Russell Fenton, Beth Caldwell, Marjorie Lechene and Bob Miller.
The concert series continues weekly through Aug. 27, with music beginning at 7 p.m. Schedule is available at ligonier.com.