The Oneonta Community Concert Band has received a $2,050 grant from the Community Foundation of Otsego County to support its “Teddy Bears’ Picnic” concert on Sunday, Aug. 17 in Wilber Park. The award makes possible free admission, and seating is at picnic tables with listeners invited to bring lawn chairs (and Teddy Bears) if they prefer.
Band president Bryan Del Bene said in a press release the group is overjoyed to receive this award allowing them to present a fun community event that includes toe-tapping music, a drawing for a free Teddy Bear - children only - and an opportunity for the audience to write a song with the band.
The community band has been an Oneonta institution since the 1850s and typically offers six concerts a year, four outside in the summer, two inside during the fall and winter. It consists of local professional musicians, experienced adults, and advanced students. Conductors are Andrew Pease of Hartwick College and Kerri Hogel of Cooperstown High School. Hogel will direct the Teddy Bear concert.
For more information, follow the Oneonta Community Concert Band on Facebook or call 607-376-7485.
