(PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
TRADITION CONTINUES … The Bryan City Band performs “Blue Ridge Sage” for the community.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The June 18 Bryan City Band performance was relocated to the MacDonald-Ruff Ice Rink due to uncertain weather forecasts. The shift in venue didn’t dampen the community’s spirit, as attendees gathered indoors for a night of music, tradition, and civic pride.
The concert program featured a variety of selections ranging from classical and cinematic pieces to patriotic themes.
The band opened with Robert W. Smith’s rousing “Flying Fortress,” followed by two compositions from James Swearingen: “Blue Ridge Saga” and “The Last Rose of Summer.”
The audience was also treated to well-loved arrangements like “Themes from the King and I,” “Red’s White and Blue March,” by Red Skelton, and “Salute to Ol’ Blue Eyes,” a medley honoring Frank Sinatra. Many more beautifully orchestrated pieces followed, filling the stormy night with comforting, live music.
The Kiwanis Club of Bryan was also present, continuing their long-standing tradition of selling popcorn during the concert series.
As always, proceeds from popcorn sales directly support the Bryan City Band, a gesture that exemplifies the strong community partnership between the organizations. In the summer, popcorn is available for $2.
A special free will donation was also held on site for “Key For A Cure,” a Relay for Life fundraiser with a focus on curing cancer.
Even with a change of location, the Bryan City Band kept its 174-year tradition alive, offering residents an evening of timeless music and community togetherness.