Sunday, members of the Pearl River County Community Band will salute members of the nation’s military and first responders during their presentation of “A Musical Salute to Our Veterans.”
The band was created in 2008 by former Picayune Memorial High School band director Johnny Baker. Members travel from neighboring areas including Poplarville, Picayune, Slidell, Bogalusa, Diamondhead and the Gulf Coast to contribute their musical talents.
Linda Hancock directs the chorus, Baker said. However, the concert will not be performing during Sunday’s concert.
The band’s first patriotic-themed concert was in 2009 and commemorated the events of 9/11. Since then, a musical tribute to veterans has been performed annually.
“We also recognize our local firemen, police officers and sheriff’s deputies,” Baker said. “Look at what they go through. For example, first responders were the first ones on the scene after the events of 9/11.”
The band will perform about seven songs including “Star and Stripes Forever,” “Our America,” “Armed Forces –– The Pride of America,” “Semper Fidelis,” “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Hymn to the Fallen.”
Prior to the final hymn, the audience will be asked to participate in the “Ultimate Patriotic Sing-a-Long,” Baker said.
Veterans and first responders will also be recognized during the concert, he said.
“People need to realize they give their lives for this country,” Baker said. “They need to be respected and honored. I tell everyone to thank veterans for their freedoms.”
The concert will be held Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Picayune Memorial High School Auditorium on Goodyear Boulevard. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed.
Learn more about the band and chorus at www.prccb.org and through Facebook at Pearl River County Community Band.
Listen to previous performances on YouTube at Pearl River County Community Band.
People interested in becoming a member of the band can contact Baker at 601-798-4999. Rehearsals are held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Picayune.