An 'Instrument Petting Zoo' for Children

Here's a a fun way to expose children to music: an "instrument petting zoo." The event takes place at the  at Sunset Park on Friday, July 9, at 7:45 p.m.

That's the evening of the Port Washington Summer Community Band's "Young Persons Meet the Instruments of the Band" concert, which begins at 8:15 p.m. Prior to the show, for kids to explore and learn about the many and varied instruments of the concert band.

"During the performance, the band will perform selections that highlight the various instruments and provide insight into the styles of the music that a band is capable of performing," said Mark Brenner, the band's conductor. "And, six children will be offered the opportunity to conduct the band."

It's the chance to inspire the next generation of bandshell performers, something Sousa himself likely would have embraced.

"I believe that this program will be educational and entertaining to children of all ages," Brenner said. "I appreciate collaborating with the staff at Wright Music in preparing for this program."