Sights and Sounds series debuts at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch

A group of patrons waited outside the door of Good Liquid Brewing Co., on March 24 at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch for their tables to be ready.

Next door under the pavilion, the Lakewood Ranch Wind Ensemble began playing the first notes of the new Sights and Sounds cultural series that will run monthly at Waterside Place.

Those enjoying a beverage while waiting for their tables, peaked around the corner of the building to see who was playing the music. They made their way around the side of the restaurant to watch.

Families with little children crossed over the bridge from the park as they headed home. The children began to dance when they heard the music, and they would stop in front of the pavilion to listen.

Nicole Hackel, the Schroeder-Manatee Ranch events and residents experience manager, began the series to present something a little different in terms of music to the residents.

"It was a great venue," said Joe Miller, the founder and usual conductor of the Lakewood Ranch Wind Ensemble who turned over his conducting duties for the evening to member Joe Martinez. "The band members enjoyed the acoustics and the audience."