Wartime music being remembered
By Chris Simon

Photo by Chris Simon Artists MacKenzie Gallanger, left, Margaret McPherson, Paul Crocker and Ken Cheney read some sheet music in preparation for the Musical Memories concert, which will be held at the Stroud Presbyterian Church Nov. 10. The free concert will feature music ranging from the 1920s to the 1950s.

The sweet sounds of a bygone era will echo through the Stroud Presbyterian Church Nov. 10.

On Saturday, the church will present Musical Memories, an evening of popular music ranging from the 1920s to the 1950s. The event is a tribute to past and present troops, and features music from the First and Second World War era, said Paul Crocker, one of the artists featured.

"When we started thinking about it, we weren't sure what kind of concept we were going to do," he said. "We started batting around the idea of remembrance. With Afghanistan, we thought that might be beneficial for the troops and church."

Along with Crocker, jazz piano player John Hart, organist Ken Cheney, and singers MacKenzie Gallanger and Margaret McPherson will be featured. The event is free, however donations will be accepted throughout the evening. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Base Borden, said Cheney.

"The funds are being divided between Base Borden and the church," he said. "We just felt it would be nice to do to relate to Remembrance Day and the past two world wars."

The evening will give the artists and those in attendance a chance to reflect upon the accomplishments of soldiers who have served in the Canadian armed forces, said Crocker.

"We thought we could bring everybody together and celebrate (the troops)," he said. "The Musical Memories was a nod to the troops of the past. It's familiar music to most people."

Tickets should be obtained before the concert date. The show is recommended for people 12 and older. For more information, call 436-7939.