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There’s a new rhythm rising in Towanda in the form of a new band, “The Bradford Batch.” The band is being organized by local singer Lily Rice, who said she wanted to create a group of musicians that could “bounce ideas off each other” to decide what pieces they would perform.

“I’ve been a part of community bands, musical groups all growing up,” said Rice. “The biggest thing that I noticed is we often play just the same setlist over and over again.”

She went on to say that while she enjoys the typical setlist for community bands, she hopes The Bradford Batch will allow its members a chance to play what they want to play.

Rice noted that Bradford County Regional Arts Council board member Irma Henson was influential in the development of The Bradford Batch, as she helped shape the vision and motivated Rice to make the dream a reality. The band will have a direct affiliation with the arts council, especially its Keystone Theatre in Towanda.

BCRAC Director of Theatre Operations Sarah Brackel shared her enthusiasm about the band’s formation, saying “I thought it sounded really great, and a wonderful way to showcase local talent.”

Brackel went on to share some of the history of live music at the Keystone Theatre, noting in its heyday it was a pitstop for performers on their way between big city shows.

“Behind the theater are the train tracks that used to lead to New York City, Rochester, Buffalo, places like that,” said Brackel. “What would happen was different singers on their way to the big cities would stop here and perform on our stage as well.”

Any area musicians interested in joining The Bradford Batch can connect with Lily Rice over Facebook Messenger, by email at Lrice.Communications@gmail.com or by phone at (570) 529-3565