Lafayette Band Returns to Wickford Festival of Lights

The Lafayette Band of North Kingstown will perform its seventh annual Wickford Festival of Lights Concert on Friday, Dec. 5, at 7:15 p.m. in the First Baptist Church, 34 Main St., Wickford. The free concert for audience members of all ages is made possible by a grant from the North Kingstown Arts Council and Centreville Bank.

Music director Beth Clarke will conduct a festive program of traditional, modern and classical holiday music. Band member Noriko Whittaker will lead the audience in a Christmas Carol sing-a long.

Due to fire safety regulations, seating will be strictly limited and available only on a first-come, first-served basis. Patrons are advised to arrive early.

One night earlier, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, a select Lafayette Band Holiday Ensemble will help welcome the season at the Wickford Festival of Lights tree-lighting ceremony. Also in December, the full band will perform private concerts to bring holiday cheer to residents of Roberts Health Center and Scalabrini Villa in North Kingstown.

The Lafayette Band is a nonprofit community concert band with a mission to strengthen North Kingstown and surrounding communities through music. Founded 130 years ago, it is one of the oldest bands in Rhode Island. Though based in North Kingstown, the band’s members reside in many communities in Southeast New England. For more information, visit www.lafayette-band.com or www.facebook.com/LafayetteBand.RI.

Photo Caption: The Lafayette Band performs at the 2013 Festival of Lights Concert at First Baptist Church in Wickford. (Submitted photo)