Music in the woods

The sounds of chipmunks, squirrels, cellos, fiddles and pianos echoed through the trees at the Lloyd Center’s fifth annual Music in the Woods event on Saturday, Sept. 27. 

Families walked the trails, which had four bands scattered throughout. The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra was in attendance, as well as local bands playing old time fiddle and jazz.

This yearly event is a thank-you to the members and sponsors of the Lloyd Center, according to Executive Director Rachel Stronch. She added that it’s also an opportunity to build community at the center.

“It’s nice to walk through the woods and hear the music lofting through,” said Stronch.

One of the board members volunteered their ice cream boat, Tweet’s Treats. There was also lunch available for a suggested donation. 

Along the trail was an animal encounters area where hikers could learn more about local wildlife, such as a toad, turtle, crabs and a salamander. Educator Naturalist Amanda Nowicka also brought her ball python and hissing cockroach pets to teach children about more animals. 

The guests were all ages. Juniper Pogash, 12, was there with her mother and grandparents. Her mother, Megan FitzGerald-Pogash was proud that her daughter recognized one of the songs being played by the orchestra, “One Sheep May Safely Graze” by Johann Sebastian Bach. Juniper was excited to hike the trails. 

“They [the band] play really well,” said Juniper.

Pogash’s grandparents, Holly and Gerald FitzGerald of Dartmouth, love the Lloyd Center and what the center does for the environment. 

“What a combination, to have the music in the woods, it’s perfect,” said Holly. 

The bands agreed with this sentiment. The musicians in the Old Time Fiddle Session with Jeff Angeley said they were all enjoying the event and the weather. They usually play indoors, and enjoyed a change in environment. 

“We think it’s wonderful,” said FitzGerald-Pogash.