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The history
of Community Concerts parallels in many ways
that of the 20th century. Begun in the 1920s,
the New York City-based cultural organization,
Community Concerts®,
began booking outstanding professional musical
artists to travel to small communities
throughout the country and present concerts. For
an annual membership fee, anyone could join and
enjoy four concerts each season.
During the
1940s several local women, including Charlotte
Rupner, Lucille Cleveland, Besse Sipherd,
Adelaide Ladd and others felt that bringing
world-class performers here would benefit our
Valley. These determined ladies were willing to
go door-to-door to promote interest in the
effort to bring Community Concerts to the
Antelope Valley. Early concerts were held were
held in the A.V. College gym and since 1991 have
been offered at the Lancaster Performing Arts
Center. As a bonus, members can attend concerts
in neighboring communities throughout Southern
California at no additional cost under the
reciprocity program.
Concerts are
designed to suit the tastes of “the average
person who likes music.” They encompass a
variety of music including classical, jazz and
popular artists. The volunteer board of
directors works to provide high quality
entertainment to residents and guests. Also, of
great importance is our sponsorship for the
“Arts for Youth” and “Student Outreach”
programs—exposing our youth to the art of live
performances by some of the world’s finest
musical artists. |
