Staff Reports

Sand Mountain Jazz will present a Christmas concert at Snead State Community College on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. in the historic Fielder Auditorium of the Story Administration Building.

Nathan Haskew, conductor and organizer of the band, serves as director of the Snead State Community Wind Band and as the band director at Albertville Middle School.

Local musicians form the talented group, including numerous Snead alumni, along with active and retired band directors. A full-scale ensemble will combine their expertise to bring good cheer and nostalgia with a selection of holiday favorites, some featuring vocals and instrumental soloists. The program includes: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “White Christmas,” “’Tis the Season to Be Funky,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “This Christmas,” “All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentle Dudes,” “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “A Marshmallow World,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” as the finale.

Jazz band performers are listed by instrument:

Saxophone — Danny Thomas, Bill Elkins, Joshua Daniel, Trey Beason, Steve Atchison;

Trumpet — Drew Gardner, Jerald Bailey, Paul Tallent, Ronny Griffin;

Trombone — Robert Howard, Betty Bates, Johnny Brewer, Don Blake, Landon McCann;

Rhythm section — Jenni Smith Morgan on piano, Mitchell Foster on guitar, Mike McGee on bass, Blaine Bopp on drums; and Tim Hays as vocalist.

“It has been such a pleasure to prepare for this upcoming concert. The musicians are top-notch, and the tunes are guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. With a traditional big band sound reminiscent of legends like Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller, this group is sure to create a festive mood and entertain an audience of all ages,” Haskew said.

There is no admission charge, but donations are accepted. All contributions will benefit area students and music programs in need of special financial support. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with general, nonreserved seating. The public is invited.