POTSDAM — For its first indoor winter concert since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Potsdam Community Band will perform in Hosmer Hall at the Crane School of Music on Friday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m.

The original Potsdam Community Band was revitalized in 2010 after having been active much of the 20th century and slipping into dormancy for a period of time.

Its music director is Theresa Witmer, retired music teacher at Potsdam Central School.

The band has been providing musical performances each summer (outdoors) and winter (except during the pandemic) since, and it has offered local musicians the oft-anticipated and highly-appreciated opportunity to rehearse and perform together.

Potsdam Community Band relies on its members to take care of all the details leading to a concert. Toward that end for this concert, music has been collected from a variety of sources that loan music to the band; it has been accounted for and distributed; a roster of volunteer musicians has been created; rehearsal and concert space has been approved and set up; and numerous other behind-the-scenes activities have been taking place to be sure all is set.

Guest conducting this winter concert is James Madeja, Professor Emeritus of Music at the Crane School and charter member of the 2010 band. Madeja says he is “thrilled to have been invited to guest conduct the 2023 Winter Concert.“

Music at the Friday, Jan. 20 concert will include the popular Greensleeves, the memorable Cole Porter - A Symphonic Portrait, and melodies from The Sound of Music.

Added to that will be pieces that might be less well-known but will win over the audience too. Madeja says he hopes to “appeal to every member of the audience.”

During rehearsals, one can observe band members working collaboratively.

Seasoned players take leadership positions for their sections and make sure the newer members and students have all they need.

Percussionists race from one instrument to another carrying music to be able to meet the demands of the scores, and instrumentalists happily tap their feet tap to the beat.

The sense of excitement to get back together and make music is palpable.

Madeja easily recognizes the value of the band. “I have always been an advocate of community music ensembles. I love the grass roots nature of the groups, the way that professional and amateur musicians come together for no other reason than the pure joy of music making. I’m proud to be a part of Potsdam Community Band.”