Spring again provides the setting when the East Texas Symphonic Band performs from the amphitheater stage Thursday at Teague Park.
"You're in lawn chairs and blankets, as opposed to in an auditorium," band member Michelle Holyfield said. "Maybe it's just a more relaxed atmosphere. People come and go. Sometimes, people are just there in the park, and they hear the music and they stay."
Listeners are lured to the annual show, partly, by the sound of patriotic music. Director James Snowden packs the playlist for the annual "Pops in the Park" with marches and tributes to America.
The East Texas Symphonic Band is an all-volunteer ensemble comprised of active and retired band directors, students and former students who kept playing while entering other careers.
Holyfield said all the band's performances remain free.
"We really want to make it available to everyone," she said. "No tickets — just show up."
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If you go
What: East Texas Symphonic Band: "Pops in the Park" Concert
When: 8 p.m. Thursday
Where: Teague Park Amphitheater, 301 American Legion Blvd.
Cost: Free
Contact: Go to www.etsymphonicband.com