By KAYLA HURLEY

News Intern

This Christmas eve, The Post-Searchlight will again be sponsoring the 36th annual holiday concert in Willis Park, which will include caroling and music by the Community Band.

The concert, a Bainbridge tradition since 1976, allows members of the community to fellowship while participating in holiday caroling.

The Bainbridge Community Band, directed by Paschal Ward, will be playing a selection of tunes to bring about the holiday spirit. During the event, participants will be able to sing along to cherished holiday songs such as “Joy to the World” and “Up on a Housetop.”

The Community Band has replaced the British Brass Band, which originally performed during the Christmas Eve Concert. The Community Band incorporates a variety of instruments including woodwind, brass and percussion. The band is comprised of approximately 70 community members of all ages who wish to play their instruments after high school or college. Many of the current members have been under Ward’s direction for several years.

“I enjoy the people in the band most of all, alongside the music and the good times we have,” Ward said. “The camaraderie and the friendships between members of the group allow us to have a great time during the practices and events.”

Sarah Burch, a resident of Bainbridge, has been playing with the Community Band since its start in 2009. Burch, who also played flute in the Bainbridge High School band, recognizes the benefits of having a band composed of community members.

“I like that I am still able to play my instrument although I’m not in high school anymore,” Burch said. “The band benefits the community because people are able to get together and hear good music.”

The concert begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, at Willis Park in downtown Bainbridge.