Like so many other performing groups, Flipside Big Band had to cancel its scheduled concerts this past spring and summer. Recently, however, the ensemble found an outdoor rehearsal venue and was able to begin preparations for a concert at Woodcrest Villa later this month. Conditions were also right for the band to present two of the three concerts it was contracted to give in Lampeter.
"We typically get at least 50 people in the audience, and they're spread out anyway," said Flipside business manager and trombonist Dale Diller. "We can spread out on the stage."
Flipside Big Band is about half of the Lampeter-Strasburg Community Band, which formed in 1992. Howard Boots conducts both groups. Diller estimates that Flipside was created 18 years ago after a man who moved from New Jersey brought a collection of big band sheet music with him. "The first time I remember us playing (as Flipside) was for my son's wedding in 2002," Diller said.
One-hour concerts are slated for 6:30 p.m. on Sundays, Aug. 16 and Sept. 13, at the amphitheater in Village Park, 800 Village Road (Route 741), Lancaster. Admission will be free of charge. Attendees should bring chairs and maintain social distancing. The availability of restroom facilities is uncertain, Diller said.
Diller noted that in previous years, the concerts would be moved inside a Lampeter church in the event of bad weather, but if it rains on Aug. 16 or Sept. 13, the concert will be canceled. "Hopefully we'll get some nice Sunday evenings," he said.
The Aug. 16 concert will feature vocal solos by Flipside keyboardist Trixie Greiner and Solanco High School music teacher Erin Biles. Biles will sing about five songs, and Greiner will perform "Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby." "She usually sings that song in our concerts because she has a unique way of singing it," Diller said.
Other compositions slated for the first concert include "Love Is Here to Stay," "Blue Moon," "Begin the Beguine," "Moonlight Serenade," "Send in the Clowns," "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66," and more.
"Hopefully there will be some people eager to get out and hear a concert," Diller remarked.
For more information about Flipside or the upcoming performances, readers may call Diller at 717-413-7126 or find the Lampeter-Strasburg Community Band on Facebook.
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