THE YOUNGSTERS BAND
by Tony Taton

It has been stated many times over that music is the rhythm of life, and this group of youngsters enjoy it wherever and whenever.

They meet at the senior hall in Port Huron on Monday mornings usually at 10 a.m. and practice until noon; take a lunch break; and practice another two hours until 2 p.m. They then dissolve until Friday afternoon when they meet at one of the adult foster care homes to play for the folks with the music they love; waltzes, western, some pop and, of course, a good fashioned hymn they were raised with.

The group varies in age from the sixties into the late eighties with ten members being 88 years young. Nearly each member has been playing and singing over 40 or 50 years. They include a gifted pianist, a fine accordionist, trumpets (2), violins (2), drums, sax, trombone, clarinet and others from time to time.

Perhaps once a month the group plays for the large group of seniors who love to show off their dancing ability (which is awesome). Most of the senior dancers are in their 70s or even into their 80s. All have a great time and share much friendship along with the good feeling of making the day for the people in the homes who are very appreciative of their effort.

These musicians come from all over the Thumb and St. Clair County, including Port Huron, Marysville, Port Sanilac, Marlette, Applegate, Lexington and other areas. The dance band plays waltzes, the fox trot, rumbas, polkas and country. It is my pleasure to be a part of this group, and I get a chance to sing now and then.

The high of the event is the good feeling one gets as we see the seniors relive their dreams and lives as the songs and music turn their memories back to the days of the past, and they sing along and keep time with the music. Yes, there are tears of joy and they relive their youth.

Each of the music makers truly loves their music, and each in his own is very able for they live for their love of music.

If you should get an opportunity to see and hear "The Youngsters", do so, and bring your dancing slippers and relive your youth with this talented group.

If you are planning an outing and need some talented youngsters, please call 810-359-8352 - no payment is needed.