(Dec. 10, 2009) -- LBReport.com provides video of the emotion-packed Dec. 8 rehearsal of LB's Junior Concert Band...coming barely two days after the death of Marvin Marker, the Band's Director since 1952.
A bittersweet scene unfolded...as teenage Band members practiced for upcoming Christmas events with upbeat holiday favorites...
...while adult Band alumni observed...and some dabbed their eyes.
To view video, click image below.
The alumni wrote their names and the years of Band membership on strips of masking tape and stuck the strips on their shirts and blouses. They spanned decades; a Tuba player attended who joined the Band at age 13 in 1953.
Long Beach Mayor Eunice Sato attended...although she wasn't a former Bandmember. Mayor Sato was contemplative at the event...and later shared her thoughts with LBReport.com. Her words can be heard on the video, below...along with Band alumni...and the music of today's Band.
Mr. Marker, in red blazer and baseball cap, at the Belmont Shore Christmas Parade, Dec. 5, 2009. LBReport.com video screen save
Mr. Marker created the Jr. Concert Band over a half century ago...and on Saturday Dec. 5, he marched alongside Bandmembers are they performed for tens of thousands of people in the Belmont Shore Christmas Parade. It was Mr. Marker's final performance with the Band.
Carrie Daquiado, LB Junior Concert Band Treasurer, says that in lieu of flowers, donations are requested to LB Junior Concert Band, 3221 Industry Dr., Signal Hill, CA 90755.
