We wanted to take a few minutes and recap what was been an amazing trip to Orlando. Our trip started when we left lunchtime on Thursday, driving straight through the night. The Jazz Ensemble had their big performance at Festival Disney later that day. Major kudos go out to Lukas Motykowski for learning the whole set in just a few rehearsals. After their concert, they received a clinic from the former Director of Jazz at Florida University. The next day, the Symphonic Winds had their big performance at Festival Disney, with a departure time of 6:20AM!!! They played in front of a panel of college directors from Notre Dame, Southern Illinois, and Winthrop Universities. After the park time, all the band students took part in one of the coolest experiences a young musician can be a part of, Disney's "You're Instrumental" workshop. At this event, the students are treated to a day in the life of a Disney musician, and how they have to be "on" all the time, and what it takes to think that way. Then, they had the opportunity to record a soundtrack, replacing the professionals on the actual recordings. They recorded two scenes from "Frozen", and even got to play some Star Wars.
Sunday was our first day without any performances, so the students enjoyed a day at Universal Studios, riding rides and being immersed in the world of Harry Potter. Monday was a memorable Day because it was the Panther Marching Band's turn to perform, and they got to march down Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, complete with their Mickey Mouse ears :-) The students enjoyed time at the Magic Kingdom and had the chance to park-hop to Epcot Center if they wanted. The day ended in magical fashion with a firework show, projections on the castle, and the famous Electric Light Parade.
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This has been a whirlwind last 2 weeks in our band program, and things are just getting heated up. First off, our Boosters and students put on an excellent BandCake breakfast on February 20th, featuring all you can eat food and performances throughout the morning. Our Pep Band season ended last week. We'd like to thank Ms. Francis for leading the group this year, and wish her luck as she searches for a teaching job in the Fall. Luke Malevicz and Luis Bonilla, two of the best jazz trombonists around, worked with the jazz bands and played for the groups, astounding listeners with their artistry. The Wind Symphony had a great three day trip to the Western Illinois Honor Band Festival, having the opportunity to work with the excellent staff at WIU, and receiving clinics with master conductor Richard Floyd. And lastly, our March Concert featured all the bands playing music from or inspired by Ireland. The Symphonic Band featured a special guest solo by student teacher Philip Keppel on the bagpipes (in full kilt), and the Wind Ensemble had freshman Irish dancer Lauren DiStefano dancing and tapping her way through a few numbers during their set. Definitely check out the video on High School Cube!
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