The fantastic family friendly event will this year be hosted by popular entertainer Michael “Banjo” Young.

Under the baton of the talented Dr Sandy Glass, the Concert Band will play a program featuring a wide-ranging selection of folk-inspired music.

The enjoyable set of songs will include famed Australian composer Percy Grainger’s Irish Tunes From County Derry, a stirring medley of Australian folk tunes by Ed Wilson and a beautiful version of the American song Shenandoah by Frank Ticheli. 

In contrast, fans of funk will be offered favourites by Prince and Stevie Wonder.

The Big Band, led by Paul Dion, will be showcasing some of its young and not so young instrumentalists in an entertaining and toe-tapping potted history of jazz development.

It will take the audience on a journey from the early traditional jazz to the current styles of big band music and how it relates to folk, funk and all the good stuff in between.

Classic arrangements from the libraries of jazz greats such as Count Basie will be featured.

“There’s a great variety of music in the program including some chances for the audience to sing along too,” Paul said.

“The musicians are really looking forward to performing for everyone.” 

“Don’t miss out on this annual family concert,” Sandy added. 

The Sapphire Coast Concert and its offshoot Big Band is a community group which, apart from the annual May concert, performs at many local events and ceremonies around the Bega Valley, including the ANZAC day services, the Eden Whale Festival and Christmas Carols in the Eden town centre. 

Players currently range from 11 years old up to 82. 

All local players or would-be players are welcomed and given guidance and encouragement when necessary.

The annual family concert is at Club Sapphire, Merimbula at 7.30pm on Friday, May 19. 

Tickets are $15 and can be booked now by calling Club Sapphire on 6495 1306.