Manatee Community Concert Band a civic gem

I had the extreme pleasure of attending a free concert performed by the Manatee Community Concert Band, which presented "Gershwin in Concert" Feb. 20 at the Manatee High School Theater. Anyone who enjoys Gershwin's music would have been delighted to be there.

Congratulations to Randy T. Gilmore, the conductor, and all the members of the band who put on a truly professional performance and received several standing ovations. In addition, the concert featured internationally known pianist Rodney Keiser and vocalists Tsador Porter and Kevin Gibbons, who highlighted Gershwin's most recognized pieces.

Kudos also to Jim Bruce, Manatee High's terrific band director, who provided the venue and technical assistance to the concert band.

The concert band will be performing 7:30 p.m. April 2, again at MHS, "A Tribute to Frank Sinatra and American Jazz" and then on April 7 at the Neel Auditorium on the campus of SCF featuring their "Spring Showcase"

There are not many opportunities to attend a free concert of this quality, so I would urge everyone who enjoys good music to attend. I would also suggest that you send a contribution to the band at P.O. Box 502, Bradenton, FL 34206, which will help them to continue to provide our community with free concerts.

Thank you, Manatee Community Concert Band, for an evening of wonderful music!

Carol Gazell

Bradenton

This story was originally published February 27, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Manatee Community Concert Band a civic gem ."