LINCOLN -- The Kitchen Band, a regular musical group at Lincoln Senior Center, plays everything but the kitchen sink. And if a sink wasn't so bulky and heavy, that probably would be another instrument in the band.
The group first started about 10-12 years ago, took a break and now is back at it again, playing, laughing and joking with each other at 10 a.m. every Tuesday morning. The band members have been together about a year this go around.
"This is something to do," said George Schooler, who plays a home-made instrument with all sorts of sounds on it. Schooler holds a stick and attached to the stick is a tambourine, wood blocks, cymbals and a cowbell. Someone else made the instrument years ago.
Evelyn Thompson said she likes to play in the band because it is fun and the members enjoy each other.
Other instruments in the band include several washboards, a large metal washtub with a string attached, wooden spoons, a bowl with a plastic lid, triangle, curved tambourine and a shaker bottle.
Jack Thompson's washboard has lots of squeaky toys, horns and bells to go along with the music. A plastic squeaky frog and furry toy weasel add personality to his washboard instrument.
Lorene Schooler plays the piano for the Kitchen Band and coordinates the group's schedule. The band has played many other venues, such as Prairie Grove, Springdale and Fayetteville senior centers, Peachtree Village in Farmington and Prairie Grove Nursing and Rehab Center.
Their favorite spot, though, is to play at Lincoln Headstart because band members are able to let the children try out the different instruments and make their own music.
Lorene Schooler said the group likes to play anything with a beat. The players like gospel music and two of their favorite songs are "Coming Around the Mountain" and the "Chicken Dance." Whenever the "Chicken Dance" is played, those listening will perform the chicken dance in the middle of the room.
Anyone is welcome to show up Tuesday mornings, bring something from the kitchen and join in the fun. To schedule the Kitchen Band, contact Lorene Schooler at 479-824-3470 or call Lincoln Senior Center, 479-824-7305.
General News on 01/28/2015