A new community band is being organized in an effort to expand access to the arts for Neshoba County residents of all ages.
Organizer Shawn Byars said the project is being developed through a nonprofit organization called Neshoba Now!, which plans to offer a variety of arts-related opportunities in the community.
The community band will be the first of several planned programs. Byars said additional programs are expected to include a community chorus, dance activities and other arts initiatives.
Organizers are inviting anyone with an interest in music to participate, including current musicians, former players and beginners. The band will be open to students in ninth grade and above, as well as adults in the community.
“We are hoping that everybody who has an instrument, who plays now, who used to play or who wants to play, will come join us,” Byars said.
An informational meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, at 5 p.m. at 208 Byrd Avenue, the temporary location of Neshoba Now!. The meeting will give attendees a chance to discuss how the band will operate and help shape its direction.
Byars said rehearsals will likely be held once a week, though a final schedule has not yet been determined.
The band will follow a traditional concert band format, including woodwinds, brass and percussion instruments. While strings will not be included initially, Byars said there are long-term plans to develop an orchestra program for younger musicians.
Byars said the band is expected to participate in the grand opening of the Congress of Country Music Museum in about a year.
“Music brings such joy and fun,” Byars said. “It’s just a wonderful activity for us to get together and do. Music is the ultimate bonding activity.”
A longtime music teacher, Byars said the community band is an opportunity to reconnect with former students and continue sharing her passion for music.
“I would tell my students that music isn’t just for school,” she said. “Music is for life.”
Byars encouraged anyone who has considered returning to music to take part in the new band.
“You don’t have to be phenomenal to play with us,” she said. “We’re just going to have fun.”
Byars said she hopes the band will become a meaningful addition to the community and give residents a chance to perform together.
“You need to come to this meeting, because you will regret it if you don’t,” she said. “This is going to be something special.”
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.neshobademocrat.com ’
