The Gateway Concert Band, a local nonprofit charitable organization, recently announced its schedule for two free holiday concerts this December, inviting the community to enjoy a diverse program of seasonal music. These annual winter performances are a cherished tradition for the ensemble, presented each year just before the Christmas holiday season.
The band's first concert is set for Sunday, December 6, at Thunder Mountain Middle School in Enumclaw, with the music beginning at 2 p.m. The second opportunity to experience the holiday program will be on Monday, December 7, at the Enumclaw High School Theater, where the performance is scheduled to start at 7:15 p.m. Both concert venues are confirmed to be ADA accessible, ensuring that all community members can attend. Additionally, large-print programs will be available at both showings, providing further accessibility for attendees.
Susan Evans, the Concert Coordinator for the Gateway Concert Band, provided insights into the planned musical selections for the upcoming performances. Evans stated that a central feature of this year's concerts will be a striking rendition of music derived from “The Polar Express,” the beloved holiday movie. According to Evans, this particular selection is intended to bring the magic of the film to life and will occupy a prominent position within the band's musical celebration.
Beyond the film score, the program is designed to offer a rich variety of holiday sounds, blending universally recognized carols with more distinctive seasonal pieces. Attendees will hear a selection of familiar Christmas favorites, Evans noted in a press release. These well-known pieces include “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The First Noel,” which will be performed alongside other cherished seasonal tunes. The Gateway Concert Band will also delve into what Evans described as “less familiar holiday gems,” such as the compositions “Midnight Sleighride” and “March of the Toys,” offering audiences a chance to discover new holiday melodies. Adding a modern flair, the program will incorporate a “jazzy twist on Christmas music” with a piece titled “Swinging Halls at Christmas Time!”
A special element of the concert series will be a featured solo performance. Clarinetist Oliv Yanak has been designated as this concert's featured vocalist and is scheduled to perform a “sweet and memorable solo.” This particular segment is anticipated to be a distinct and special highlight of the overall concert experience for those in attendance.
While the Gateway Concert Band offers both performances free of charge as part of its mission as a nonprofit charitable organization, the group does welcome support from the community. A donation of $10 per person is always appreciated to help sustain the band's efforts in bringing music to the community. These festive concerts aim to provide a welcoming opportunity for families and individuals to connect with the holiday spirit through music.
