Hazlet Seeks Musicians For Summer Showband

HAZLET, NJ - Calling all musical virtuosos: Hazlet Township recently announced the formation of a new community band, and applications are now open for members.

Dubbed Hazlet Pops, the band already has a string of outdoor performances scheduled this summer (dates to be announced). Members will rehearse together to perform four times this summer in Veterans Park.

Concert themes are Patriotic, Movie Music, Broadway Tunes and Back to the Classics Night, according to a municipal notice announcing the event.

Band leader Raymond Lahaye (who leads Raritan High School’s renowned marching band) says he expects to have between 50 and 80 players, perhaps even 100. "Musicians have not been able to get together during the pandemic, so there will be a lot of enthusiasm for Hazlet Pops," he said. "We know there is a lot of talent in the Hazlet area. We welcome all of them and can't wait to start playing."

Musicians with their own instruments in ninth grade and up are encouraged to apply. To sign up, fill out this form by April 30.

Hazlet Township Committeeman Skip McKay reports that the idea for a community band came about when thinking about how to present activities in Veterans Park this summer while maintaining social distancing:

"We love the idea of people and families coming to our beautiful park to spread out a blanket and enjoy a free concert by a community band," he said.

To view the municipal notice, click here.