Like Little Boy Blue blowing his bugle, youthful exuberance filled the sanctuary of St. Luke's Episcopal Church on St. Patrick's Day.

The brass and saxophone ensembles' audition groups at Sequim High School played for the Music Live with Lunch event at the church, 525 N. Fifth Ave., Sequim.

The monthly not-for-profit music production brings local musicians to play half-hour sets with lunch afterward for eight months a year from September-May.

Music Live with Lunch was started in 1994 by Lou and Bill Yandell as a fundraiser for the church.

When the Yandells were unable to continue the program, about five years ago, Carolyn Braun began coordinating it because she had musical connections as a member of the Port Angeles Symphony.

The program was struggling the first year Carolyn and her husband, Ray, took over. It had about 50-75 people in attendance. After some advertising and word of mouth, the program is growing in popularity and averages about 130 people.

"It's mainly an outreach for Sequim to have good music and delicious food at lunch time, because not everyone can make it to Port Angeles for the symphony," Carolyn said.

Music Live with Lunch is not meant to be a church recruitment event, for people of all faiths are welcome and have come in

the past.

"I'm a musician and I find it to be an uplifting experience but it is not overtly religious," Carolyn said.

The music generally is classical because that's what Carolyn wants to focus on, but she tries to broaden tastes with groups such as accordion players.

"We try to get people of all sorts but try and keep classical as our focus," Carolyn said.

She said she was pleased to have the high school students play because it brings in a new sound and energy to the venue.

"These are kids who can. Kids who do. They are excellent individuals," she said.

All performers donate their time. Admission costs go toward food expenses and Sequim charities.

Reach Matthew Nash at mnash@sequimgazette.com.