Maidstone Youth Music Society (MYMS) kicked off the concerts with four ensembles providing a variety of entertainment.
The Maidstone Youth Wind Orchestra began proceedings with four rousing wind band arrangements, followed by the Beta Percussion Ensemble, who played a lively traditional Brazilian samba piece. The Alpha Band is MYMS’ junior wind band, and they played a selection of pieces including ‘Forget You’ and ‘Celebration’.
The MYMS Voices massed choir of nearly 60 young people rounded off the concert, performing a number of songs under the direction of Ciara Considine and accompanied by Tania Dowd. This was an experiment singing in the open air and worked very well with sound amplification from the Hazlitt. MYMS had applied for a public collection licence and raised £208.51.
The next free concert starts at 3pm on Sunday 30 June, when the Jon Hamilton Big Band will take centre stage with guest vocalist Ruth Fahie.
BAE Systems Brass Band will bring their extensive repertoire to the park on Sunday 7 July.
While the final concert is on Sunday 14 July and will feature the Invicta Jazz Orchestra. Further details about the all the concerts can be found at Visit Maidstone
Cllr Paul Harper, Chair of the Economic Regeneration & Leisure Committee said:
“It was great that so many people went along to Brenchley Gardens to enjoy the first of our outdoor summer concerts. I attended the concert and was impressed with the standard. I hope people will enjoy the rest of the season, it's good to take time out to listen to live music.
"As we still have three more concerts to go there is plenty of time for everyone to come along for a relaxing Sunday afternoon in the park. It’s great to see the bandstand in Brenchley Gardens being used for its intended purpose.”
Each concert will start at 3pm and last approximately 1½ to 2 hours. Guests are advised to bring their own chairs or blankets.