Effingham Community Orchestra entertained an enthusiastic audience Sept. 23 with its second annual “Our Favorites” concert at the Effingham County Recreation and Parks Department Gymnasium in Springfield.

Recently, orchestra musicians voted to determine which pieces would be performed. The musicians selected an extraordinary variety of music, and there was something to satisfy almost every musical taste. Included in the program were movie themes, music from hit TV shows, several of Henry Mancini’s hits, and a few classical pieces.

“We were especially gratified at the large turnout for this concert,” said Andrea Huff, orchestra director.

Many audience members seemed especially moved by the orchestra’s performance of “Amazing Grace.”

Huff said that she had searched for some time for just the right arrangement of the well-loved hymn.

“I really liked this arrangement for our orchestra because it provided an opportunity for us to reproduce the sound of bagpipes with our other instruments,” she said. “I think our audience liked it as much as we do.”

The orchestra’s sixth annual holiday concert and homemade cookie sale will be held Dec. 2. The location will be announced in the near future.

The five-year old Effingham Community Orchestra is comprised of both adult and high school youth musicians. They perform quarterly concerts and for community events at various locations throughout the county.

“We depend totally upon donations, sponsors, and fundraisers for our financial needs - and our very existence,” said Huff.  “The generosity of our audiences and supporters enables us to bring these free concerts to our community.”

The orchestra is now accepting new adult and high school student musicians. Additional information may be obtained by visiting the orchestra’s website, www.effinghamcommunityorchestra.org. Huff encourages all interested musicians to email her at effinghamcommunityorchestra@windstream.net or call the orchestra’s office phone, 912-826-5300, Ext. 25.