Arts & Entertainment
Stars, Stripes and Patriotic Jams at Avon Senior Center
The Connecticut Army Band will perform timeless, patriotic songs at Avon Senior Center this summer.
Last year, one of the Avon Senior Center’s most popular events was the Connecticut Army Band Concert. Brass Pack, a five-member unit of the band, played an hour-long set filled with popular, patriotic music.
“The music was great. … The crowd was excited and [the band was] excited,” Jennifer Bennett, Avon Senior Center director, said.
Because of the event’s popularity, Bennett asked the band to perform again this summer.
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“It’s an honor. … You have to write a formal letter … ask[ing] for permission. … It’s not like booking an entertainer,” Bennett said, regarding the process of requesting an army band performance.
Bennett encourages people of all ages to come out and support the band. Last year, many grandparents brought their grandchildren to enjoy timeless, patriotic melodies.
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Dennis Marolda, who has been a member of the Connecticut Army Band since 1977, will play drums at the upcoming concert.
“[There] will be two groups. One is called Brass Pack, which is a brass quintet, and then our Dixieland band, which is called Whistlin’ Dixie,” Marolda told Patch.
The 40-member band is a part of the National Guard that serves the nation through music. Members are required to practice and perform for 1 weekend per month and two weeks during the summer.
According to Marolda, joining the army band provides “an outstanding opportunity for any young person because you can pay for your education through the guard.” Potential members must audition for a spot with the group.
The Avon Senior Center, whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for all Avon senior residents, organizes a wide array of events and activities for the community. In addition to the upcoming army band performance, the center offers fun-filled activities like wii bowling competitions, movie nights, bridge games, Tai Chi classes and much more.
The Connecticut Army Band concert will take place on Tuesday, June 28, at 2 p.m. at the Avon Senior Center, located at 635 West Avon Road in Avon. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Please contact Jennifer Bennett to reserve a seat at jbennett@town.avon.ct.us or 860-675-4355.
Additional Connecticut Army Band concerts will take place on June 23 at Eno Memorial Hall in Simsbury at 2 p.m. and Gazebo in Unionville at 7 p.m. and on June 28 at Brodie Park in New Hartford at 6:30 p.m.
