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LOVE SONGS
The sound of music makes an old heart swell. It lifts us up to some
enchanted land and gifts us with a lovely, magic spell,
As heart and mind enjoy the Concert Band.
The mind remembers old songs note by note while heart just feels
emotion leaping’ round.
And as the music lets our spirits float, from all our earthly trials we’re unbound.
Whatever we must do to carry on-to show our love and demonstrate
a skill we’ll do until we’re stilled and music’s gone. For when we played
there was no greater thrill. No moment when we could not understand the joy of music played in Concert Band!
Written by George Delmonte in honor of the Concert Band's 15th Anniversary
In Memoriam George Delmonte
Announcer, singer, poet, teacher, coach, theater guru, drum corps legend, friend – consider all
of these and you haven’t even scratched the surface
of George Del Monte. George was one who lit up a room and turned your day around, who could make
a grumpy audience a great one and a fair concert outstanding.
He was a dear friend of the bands, serving as announcer, stage manager and soloist for many years. His combination of knowledge, wit, fun
and sarcasm endeared George to performers and audiences alike.
George taught English, Drama and Humanities
for 35 years. During that time he coached soccer
and was elected Coach of the Year at West Orange
High School. George was a member of the Hawthorne Caballeros for 25 years and was
inducted into the NJ Drum Corps Hall of Fame and the Buglers Hall of Fame. In addition, he was a theatrical director for 68 years, winning awards for Best Director.
After retiring, George wrote for several newspapers as a reporter, drama critic, award-winning poet and arts columnist. And THEN he
came to The Villages! He poured himself into
directing plays, writing poetry, singing for The Villages Swing Band and announcing for all 3
Bands of the Villages. In addition, he helped form
The Villages Drama Co., encouraging retirees
to grow as actors and performers.
Above all these things, George was a great friend.
He loved getting to know people, working
alongside and helping each of us grow along the
way. All who knew him have been changed for the better through his love and influence.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Carole, George’s wife of 64 years, their 3 children and their family. Thank you for sharing this remarkable man with us.
The Bands of The Villages Calendar