Shepherdstown Middle School’s Jazz Band visited The Canterbury Center on May 3.

Directed by music teacher Karen Conant, the band of seventh- and eighth-graders performed a spring concert for about 25 to 30 residents.

“They come every December for the Christmas performance, and then in May, before the end of school, for the spring concert,” said Canterbury Center activities director Elisa Adams. “Unfortunately, last December, we had to skip them because we had the flu. But normally we get to see them twice a year.”

Adams said the residents always enjoy the band’s concerts.

“Everybody was awake, they just loved it,” Adams said. “It’s sort of reminiscing for them – not just about the music, but it also reminds them of their childhoods and their children.

“They’re always amazed to see these young musicians, because they’re very good,” she added. “You can see some of the residents moving their legs, moving with the rhythm, singing along and crying with joy because they used to play in a band or dance.”

Along with performing a variety of old and new jazz music, the students socialized with the residents and enjoyed drinks and refreshments before hopping on their school bus and driving back to school for their next class.

“They are on a time frame, so we’re very thankful they come here,” Adams said. “The contact with the youth of this community shows our residents the future of this community is in good hands. It’s nice to see those who are taking your place are good people.”

Adams said the band has been performing at the Canterbury Center since before she started her current position three years ago, and said she couldn’t think of a better way to welcome the warm season than with the band’s spring concert.

“The band was very professional and they entertained our residents with their big instruments,” Adams said. “They gave our residents and staff a fantastic morning.”

According to Adams, other groups also entertain the center’s residents throughout the year. Some even remembered residents on Mother’s Day.

“We do have a lot of things going on, a lot of entertainers at different times, including the middle school choir,” Adams said. “Yesterday, a group from Jefferson High School came and gave us Mother’s Day cards and flowers for our residents.”