Entertainment
In 1979 a group of farsighted citizens decided it was time for Lebanon to have a concert series just like those found in much larger cities, so a board was formed to bring quality, live performances to the small town of Lebanon.
That first year, board members and volunteers sold tickets for a three-concert season which cost $12.50. A few years later patron sponsorships and underwriting support were added to increase revenue. Our continual goal then was to upgrade, diversify and increase the number of our offerings. And for the next 33 years we offered six great concerts for only $60.
The board has always striven to select accomplished talent that would appeal to a broad cross-section of people. Most of the performers have been vocalists or instrumentalists, but, on occasion, we have hosted dance troupes, operas or plays. Always excellent, the selections have run the gamut of styles from classical to blues, patriotic to Dixieland, standards to contemporary. The only real criterion is that the Lebanon Concert Association wants a quality, cultural experience for its members.
Performances for the first several years were held in the Nelson Center, then in Summer's Auditorium on the old junior high campus, and now in the wonderful Cowen Civic Center.
From the successful efforts of hard-working board members throughout the years, Lebanon has been enriched by the professional, cultural experiences brought to us by this organization. We're indeed proud and fortunate to have the Lebanon Concert Association beginning its 37th year.