2026-04-12 Maine Pops Conducts Second Annual Small Ensembles Concert in Saco.

An audience of about 75 people – including Maine Pops Concert Band members – attend the 2nd Annual Maine Pops Small Ensembles Concert, held April 12 at the First Parish Congregational Church in Saco, Maine.

Flautist Chris Elbrader performs on bass flute with the Maine Pops Flute Choir during the band’s 2nd annual small ensemble concert held April 12 in Saco. Elbrader also performed as a clarinetist with the band “Clarinet Chromatics” ensemble. (Photo by Steve Barrrett.)
The two-hour concert featured six of the Maine Pops’ nine active small ensembles in performance in an effort to expand on each musician’s talent, build confidence in small ensemble events and providing entertainment to activities and functions at smaller venues.

The six ensembles that performed were:
The Clarinet Chromatics Ensemble,
The Harbor Brass Quintet,
The Maine Pops Flute Choir,
The Polished Brass Ensemble,
Quince – The Maine Pops Woodwind Quintet,
The Down East Jazz Combo.

Trumpeter Thomas Lizotte, trumpeter Scott Simundza, and saxophonist Sue Niemoeller perform with the Down East Jazz Combo. It’s the newest of the nine active Maine Pops Concert Band small ensembles. The combo made its debut at the band’s 2nd annual small ensembles concert held April 12 in Saco, ME. (Photo by Steve Barrett)

Many thanks to the Reverend Scott Cousineau and the First Parish Congregational Church for hosting this performance, the Maine Pops members who provided support, and to the many attendees who enjoyed the concert.

Next up is the 2026 Maine Pops Concert Band Spring Concert, slated for Wednesday, April 29, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Westbrook Performing Arts Center in Westbrook, Maine. Suggested donation for attendance is $15, with students admitted free.

Author: Steve Barrett

Steve Barrett is a retired government public affairs official with 43 years of experience (23 military, 20 with Federal Government). Married since 1987. Twin daughters are high school language teachers. Steve is a retired competitive marching band photographer, having photographed for Arundel High School (2002-2017), USBands (2011-2025) and the New England Scholastic Band Association (2021-2025). Played trumpet/flugelhorn recreationally with the Anne Arundel Community College community jazz band from 2007-2017. Now performs recreationally with the Maine Pops Concert Band and is an elected member of the band's board of directors. Holds a Master of Arts Degree in Communication from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland University College. Barrett is originally from Montour Falls, NY.

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