The Marion Concert Band, with over 40 musicians and led by Maestro Tobias Monte, presented a wonderful evening of entertainment on Friday, July 24. With a slight breeze, 75 degrees, and the smell of bug spray in the air, it was a beautiful day for Mozart’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, or a little night music.
As it was my first time seeing the band, I thoroughly enjoyed the sights and sounds. The Maritime Center, Island Wharf, and the boats in Sippican Harbor provided a scenic background for relaxing while listening to all the instruments. There were tubas, French horns and saxophones, oh my!
Before the show, I looked for unsuspecting folks to interview. Near me sat two women and a nice dog. I went up to them and asked how long they had been coming to hear the band. One of the women said, “All my life; I’m the conductor’s wife!” A couple of their kids are also in the band, and the grand-dog Dylan attends every concert. It was truly a family-friendly event.
The first part of the concert featured “Hollywood Milestones,” including a variety of motion picture soundtracks and TV show themes from the 1960s and beyond. The second part featured movie music with a “space” theme, including selections from the Star Wars saga since 1977, and older ones from Star Trek. The music was upbeat and fun. I found myself whistling along to The Odd Couple theme and was out of breath by the end of it!
The most interesting part of the show was the brass wind instrument called the euphonium. I had not heard of this “octave below the trumpet” baritone commonly used in military bands. Soloist Toby Monte Jr. wowed the crowd by playing a piece from the movie Cinema Paradiso. It had a different sound, but it was a special treat to experience.
Maestro Monte, who lives in Somerset, is a teacher and music director at UMass Dartmouth. In his spare time, he plays the trumpet for the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra. When I asked if he has any plans to retire, he enthusiastically declared, “Heck no; I’m having too much fun!” With a big smile on his face, he was in his element as he conducted and was loving every minute of it.
In our brief conversation, Monte proudly mentioned that band members consist of professionals, teachers and students. While practicing across the street at the Marion Music Hall, the group works on selections of songs for the new season of programs. They offer nine shows in July and August every Friday night at the Robert Broomhead Bandstand on Front Street. Parking and grass to sit on are plentiful. The best part is the concerts are free.
The band began its concert with the National Anthem and ended it with a lovely sunset.
By Ann Marie Dunn