Music is something that people of all ages, all around the world adore. With the famous Halloween just around the corner, the school’s bands decided to host a concert on October 16 from 7-9 p.m., celebrating the arriving night. The concert was separated into three parts and three bands, The Wind Symphony, the 154 Jazz Ensemble, and the Wind Ensemble.
There were nine songs in all, Pirates of the Caribbean arranged by Michael Sweeny, I Wanna Be Like You by John Wasson, and Les Miserables arranged by Warren Barker being just a few. There was also a song sung by Meagan Provenzano, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore arranged by Mark Taylor, as part of the 154 Jazz Ensemble. The music was eerie and creepy, perfect for the Halloween spirit. All three bands were talented in their instruments and were enjoying playing for the crowd, and presenting what they have practiced throughout the year.
Lisa Pate, the Band Director, shared advice to anyone who is thinking about joining band, and stated, “You should do it. A lot of students think that they need to start sooner, or they need to already play an instrument, but I take everyone. You’ll end up playing all this stuff by the time you get to your senior year. It’s never too late to start.” Pate plays all kinds of instruments, her main being the saxophone. She has been a high school band director for 18 years, and working here for 17, showing her dedication to the Highlanders.
Senior Hannah Zeman, a Band Manager and Percussion Captain of Marching Band, also shared he input, and said, “I say, just do it. I know a lot of kids get scared or intimidated, or they say I don’t know an instrument, or I don’t know how to play or anything, but there’s amazing people here that will help you and teach you. It’s never too late.”
The bands all worked really hard for this concert, practicing since almost the beginning of the year. They all seemed to have an amazing time on stage, cracking jokes and enjoying each others company. The Kingdom is multitalented, and if you would like to witness it, it is recommended to go to a future band concert. They all played their best, and it showed with every note played.
