Enjoy the Christmas season with a free concert performed by the Knoxville Community Band at the historic Bijou Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 2, at 3 p.m.

The concert will be a celebration of Christmas standards from “Blue Christmas” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain” to “Joy to the World.” Holiday favorites will include “Good King Wenceslas,” “Silent Night,” “Carol of the Bells,” “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” and “Deck the Halls.”



Yes, and “Jingle Bells,” too. That song, one of the best-known American songs in the world, was intended for the Thanksgiving season when it was written in 19th century. Today, however, it’s recognized as a Christmas tradition.

Mike Layland will play the alto saxophone solo on “The Christmas Song,” a classic recognizable from its opening line, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.” Layland is a retired band director from Fairfax, Va.

The Knoxville Community Band is comprised of a variety of performers, from current band directors to seasoned amateurs. All members are volunteers. The group plays year round at festivals and other special events and performs a series of outdoor concerts during the summer.

The Knoxville Community Band is sponsored by the Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department and is directed by Larry Hicks, assisted by Mark Boring. Both Hicks and Boring are retired band directors from Blount County.

New members with expertise on wind or percussion instruments are welcome. Practices are from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Northwest Middle School.

To learn more about the Knoxville Community Band and watch a video of the band’s performances, CLICK HERE.