COLUMBIANA – The city may have its own Christmas soundtrack produced in the coming weeks, thanks to yet another project under way by the Columbiana First Committee.

Committee member Jacqueline Shell said she put the idea to the committee after a discussion with Jeremy Mackall and Carrie Holsinger of the Town Center at Firestone Farms regarding what music would be played through the overhead speakers at the commercial development during the holidays.

Mackall is co-owner of the development and Holsinger is social media coordinator.

Shell thought what better music than the sounds of Columbiana itself?

“Since I have a close working relationship with a local movie score composer, I wondered if it would be possible to create our own Christmas soundtrack,” she said.

She said that when she presented the idea to the Columbiana First Committee, they were excited about the possibility and embraced the idea “wholeheartedly.”

Also excited about the project was Todd Maki of Youngstown Scoring Stage, who she said offered several suggestions to fit an aggressive timeline.

The committee is hoping to have the soundtrack available by Nov. 17 for the Christmas in Columbiana events.

Shell said the group decided on a string quartet to be recorded at Stambaugh Auditorium involving several local musicians and that the compiling and arranging of the music selections will begin immediately.

The committee’s only obstacle for the project so far is the cost of production, which is roughly $3,500, she added.

The committee has discussed trying to see if any local businesses or organizations would be willing to help fund the production and printing of the CD.

Anyone interested in assisting with the project is asked to contact Shell, chamber president and committee chairwoman Ginny Perkins or chamber executive director April Brinker.

“Christmas music is timeless and something that evokes warm memories. Our hope is that it will appeal to local residents and tourists alike,” Shell said.

The CDs will be available for business owners to sell and promote in their shops and will also be made available to local non-profits and schools as a fundraising opportunity.

A portion of the proceeds will support the committee’s efforts of promoting Columbiana business and creating unique activities and events to attract visitors the city.

“Columbiana has always prided itself on traditions but embraces the creativity and innovation of its community members. With so much local talent and enthusiasm for the arts, it seems appropriate that we create our own soundtrack,” she said.