The weekly program was enhanced the first weekend of March with a performance by the local Resa’s Pieces Concert Band – which played a variety of music, including old Jewish favourites, swing, classical and movie themes – and Klez Konnection, a Klezmer group.

Onlookers could be seen packing the upper floors, viewing the performers and audience on the main floor and clearly enjoying the outstanding presentation.

Resa’s Pieces saxophonist Al Fitleberg’s vocal rendition of famous Yiddish hit Bei Mir Bistu Shein (To Me You’re Beautiful) was a particular sensation.

Flutist Resa Kochberg launched Resa’s Pieces in 2000. A music teacher by profession, she hadn’t played the instrument in about 25 years – as was the case with many of the group’s musicians – and this was her return to the hobby.

Klez Konnection sax player Ed Noy also had taken a long break from his beloved pastime. In the ’60s, he was a frequent entertainer at popular downtown clubs like Gasworks, Local Bin and Abbey Road.

When Resa’s Pieces was founded several years ago, there were 18 members, some of whom couldn’t even recall how to hold their instruments. Now it comprises approximately 35 musicians from diverse professional backgrounds, ranging in age from the mid-20s to over 80.

Resa’s Pieces is now a member of the Canadian Band Association – Ontario Chapter.

Ruth Fishman, a clarinetist, is president of the recently established board of directors.

Resa’s Pieces and Klex Konnection, which has 12 members, will perform at Leah Posluns Theatre on June 2. For more information, check out www.resaspieces.org.