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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday June 16, 2006 - 33 Artscene Oakville Beaver · FRIDAY, June 16, 2006 33 HAPPY ANNIVERSARY: Bea Gratton, follows the conductor's instructions during an Oakville Wind Orchestra rehearsal for its upcoming Special Day of Celebration concert of July 4 marking the community orchestra's 140th anniversary. LIESA KORTMANN / OAKVILLE BEAVER Oakville Wind Orchestra tuning up for 140th anniversary Our hometown community band, the Oakville Wind Orchestra is celebrating its 140th birthday on July 4. The band started performing in Oakville in the year 1866 and this tradition continues through the Tuesday evening Summer Concert Series at the Lakefront Stage in Coronation Park during July and August at 7 p.m. The July 4 concert has been set aside as a very Special Day of Celebration. When I first heard about the plans, I was excited to know that I was going to be part of this celebration and am looking forward to working and performing with such a wonderful group of musicians. It is true, that life can go on at warp speed when one is busy, and while I look forward to this celebration, I know that there are many members of the band focusing their attention on the numerous details and plans for this event. Our lives have a way of sweeping us off in new directions. New faces come and others often fade as we progress and our focus changes. I am so thrilled that I am able to be part of this orchestra and contribute my passion for music. I have had the opportunity to meet many new people and strengthen my knowledge and interest in music. These fond memories will last in a way that no scrapbook or even photo album ever could. Celebrations are fun and exciting. If you were ever involved with the Oakville Wind Orchestra, I encourage you to attend this function. You will feel as though you are part of the band again. If you have never had the opportunity to hear the Town of Oakville community band, please join us in our celebration. You can also visit the OWO Web site at www.owo.ca for complete details regarding the Summer Concert Series. I truly admire my friends from the Oakville Wind Orchestra for the individuals they are and the way in which they help each other. There is always room to share and so much to learn from one another. The band members want the Town of Oakville to know that their community band is still alive and well and wish to share the joy of music. Please mark your calendars and join in on the festivities July 4 while the orchestra plays their favourite pieces under the brilliant direction of Chris Arthurs. Bring your own lawn chair, an evening picnic, the children or your family pet and enjoy the sounds of music. BARBRA MITCHELL, OAKVILLE WIND ORCHESTRA MEMBER