In past years we have played in afternoon processions followed by an evening concert for the Assunta Society for the Feast of the Assumption. However this year the Parish decided not to have a Grand Procession but instead held a festival in the parking lot of the Parish Center.
Because there was a DJ playing amplified music outside we were invited to perform inside.
At one time the Parish Center was a school and anyone who ever went to a Parochial school would have felt like they took a step back in time. We entered the gym – the basketball nets lifted up, markings on the hardwood floor, folding chairs setup in neat rows facing the stage.
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In Catholic schools the gyms and auditoriums shared the same space.The Red Band set up on stage and started the concert with the playing of both the American and Italian National Anthems.
The audience grew quite rapidly as they entered the room from the outdoor festival area.
Our interlocutor, Pat Santacroce, positioned himself on the floor right in front of the 1st row of seats - putting his charm as close to the audience as possible. He delighted and enchanted them with his stories.
Usually when we give a concert the audience is enjoying themselves – sitting outside, eating the food offered at the venue, talking with friends, singing along with the band. But this time they came to hear the band. With no distractions from the outside noise (usually food vendors, games, and rides) they focused on the music and had a great time.
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The room filled up and they sang, tapped their toes, and danced.
The crowd exploded when we played the Beer Barrel Polka – they danced and jumped – clapping and cheering!
It was a memorable night in Mechanicville.
After the concert and we boarded the bus for home – just as we started to drive away – a volley of fireworks exploded in the sky
VIVA TO OUR FRIENDS IN MECHANICVILLE!!
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VIVA LA BANDA ROSSA!!!
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