The Kerrick family each holiday season plans a few outings that appeal to all family members. The recent Holiday Concert at Highland High School, performed by the Highland Community Band, was one of their first stops.
“We have musicians in our family who enjoy attending local concerts,” said Barbara Kerrick of Schererville, who arrived with her son Tim and grandson Dan. “Tonight’s event is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.”
The trio enjoyed the evening’s program of traditional holiday songs — played with a twist, as they hummed along with the 150-member audience.
“We always make time to hear this community band, they perform at many places throughout the year” said Francine Hartman of Highland. “I love that this isn’t just another music show for the holidays. I know these players are not professionals by trade, but they sure sound like they are.”.
Lead by local music teacher Greg Jasek, the Highland Community Band is comprised of 50 people of all ages and all skill levels
“My family just moved to Highland from Frankfort, Illinois a few months ago,” said sixth-grader Gregory Woods, as he readied his maracas and other percussion items to be used in the show. “My dad is a musician and he suggested that we join this band. I’m having a lot of fun.”
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Dad Tim Woods set up next to his son as he checked the music sheets placed on his xylophone.
“Coming from a musical family, it made sense for us become members,” he said. “This is quality time.”
During the 90-minute show, Highland Clerk-Treasurer Mike Griffin acted as master of ceremonies, introducing each tune, as he gave tidbits of its history.
“One of the most loved songs, ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,’ was written in 1963 for Andy Williams to perform on his television show,” Griffin told the audience as the band prepared to play one of the most-recognized songs of the season. “It was never expected to go into an album for sale — or to become so popular that it has been considered an all-time favorite holiday song.”
Two selections from the 1966 animated “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” cartoon (and the later story-turned-into a movie of the same name) also was on the evening’s program.
“I’m excited about this,” Griffin said, as he introduced the clarinet section of the band that played the well-known selections. “Nothing says Christmas like these two songs — Welcome Christmas and You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”
The Highland Community Band was formed in the 1990s, with the intent to welcome any and all community members that wanted to volunteer their musical talents. That small contingency has grown its membership to approximately 50 musicians. It welcomes all ages and skill levels.
The group meets weekly in the Highland High School band room.
For more information, contact Greg Jasek at [email protected].
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.