Community band entertains with summer concert Sunday

Kristin Berquist

(Updated: Thursday, June 25, 2009, 6:29 PM)

Each year the Oakhurst Community Band entertains local music lovers with a free patriotic-themed performance on the Sunday before July 4.

This year, Celebrate America 2009 Summer Concert will take place at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28 at the Mountain Christian Center on Highway 49 in Oakhurst.

In years past, the summer concert was held in the Oakhurst Community Park. Last year the church offered its facilities, allowing the event to move indoors to escape the summer heat.

Ann White, a member of the Oakhurst Community Band board of directors and a professional singer, said the band will be joined this year by featured guest choirs from Northwest Church in Fresno and a local choir directed by James Mierkey. Past performers have included Barry McGuire and Jack Hannah of the Sons of the San Joaquin.

The repertoire of patriotic songs will include traditional numbers like "Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "Stars and Stripes Forever." Assistant director Pat Mierkey and his wife Mary Helen will sing "Sentimental Journey." A video featuring testimonials from servicemen about their personal experiences with the American flag is also planned for the evening.

Leroy Anderson's "Bugler's Holiday" will display the tremendous talent of the trumpet section, White said. The jazz ensemble will also perform three nostalgic big band songs from the swing era. A special rendition of "American Pie," arranged by Oakhurst resident Wayne Livingston and sung by White herself, is sure to be a crowd pleaser, she said.

"That's the reason we do it at all, to share the music and talent with the community," said White of the opportunity to showcase local musical treasures such as Livingston, band director Randy Hyatt and those who play in the band.

With about 45 members, the community band is comprised of a wide variety of members ranging in age from middle school to over 75. In his sixth year as band director, Hyatt said the best part is seeing the community involvement and spirit. Advanced musicians play alongside those who haven't played in years to mentor and encourage one another, Hyatt said, allowing the musical journey to continue.

With a medley of Americana songs and his personal favorite "Sing We Liberty," Hyatt said he likes songs that represent the heartbeat of America and looks forward to "celebrating this great nation."

Along with festive decor and flags, the evening will also include recognition of the men and women who serve in the military, Hyatt added.

The Oakhurst Community Band is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, providing valuable training and experience for high school music students and a chance for local musicians to play in a concert band. Treasurer Alan Graas said the concert is made possible through the incredible amount of community support. Donations will be accepted at the concert on Sunday. As in previous years, White expects Sunday's event to draw a large crowd.

The community band always welcomes new musicians, White said. Those interested in joining can contact Sandy Schaeffer at (559) 760-3849.