American Legion Band of the Tonawandas presents festive Christmas concert

The American Legion Band of the Tonawandas’ annual Christmas concert will bring holiday cheer to the Cardinal O’Hara High School Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. This year's concert will feature vocalists Mary Kofahl and Jeffrey Thompson alongside the 80-member American Legion national championship band as they perform a special Christmas holiday concert program.

The concert will include famous holiday works such as “Poet and Peasant Overture” by Franz von Suppé, “Children’s March” by Edwin Franco Goldman, “A Most Wonderful Christmas” arranged by Robert Sheldon, “Sleigh Ride” and “A Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson, “Holiday Overture” by Kenneth Soper, “Jingle Bells Fantasy” by John Wasson, “Christmas Recollections” by John Edmondson, “Cantique de Noël” by Adam Adolphe and “Belle of the Ball” by Leroy Anderson.

Organizers said, “This program is carefully selected to include beloved Christmas classics that resonate with the holiday spirit. Pieces like ‘Sleigh Ride and ‘A Christmas Festival’ are sure to evoke memories of past holidays and create new ones for attendees.

American Legion Band of the Tonawandas President David Abrahamian said, “Our Christmas concert is one of our favorite events of the year. We love bringing the community together to celebrate the holiday season with music that will bring comfort and joy. Our concert honors the longstanding tradition of holiday music, from classical compositions to contemporary arrangements. This blend of old and new ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy, from young children to grandparents".

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $13 from three outlets below, or at the door for $15 on the night of the performance.

√ Walker Bros. & Monroe Jewelers, 84 Webster St., North Tonawanda; 716-693-0527

√ Mid-City Opticians, 968 Payne Ave., North Tonawanda; 716-692-5480

√ Tonawanda Senior Center, 35 Main St., Tonawanda; 716-692-7029

Cardinal O’Hara High School is located at 39 O'Hara Road, Town of Tonawanda. For more information, visit the American Legion Band of the Tonawandas website at www.tonawandalegionband.com.