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Percussion concert on Dec. 10

Performance will allow practice for Bands of America percussion competition in March

By Lauren Burdick
<lburdick@hilite.org>

On Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the band room, percussionists from all five bands, including the two freshmen bands and the three upper-class bands will perform for the students at this school. For some, this experience holds an especially important meaning, as it is in preparation for the Bands of America (BOA) competition this upcoming March.

“The top two concert bands’ percussionists are going to BOA and performing as a percussionist ensemble,” percussionist and junior Becky Welch said. This concert will not only serve as an opportunity to practice their pieces before the competition, but also as a way for members of the school to see what the percussionists have been working on all year.

“It’s open for students to come see. We’re really trying to fundraise, so it’s definitely open for everyone to come,” Welch said. Tickets are available for $3 for adults and $2 for students, and all of the proceeds from the ticket sales go toward funding for the percussionists to go to BOA. Although the competition takes place in Indianapolis, according to Welch, they will be staying downtown near the venue, Lucas Oil Stadium. The percussionists had to apply to attend the BOA and be accepted before ensuring their spot at the competition.

Director Bruce McConnell said, “This is the first time we’ve done a first semester concert. We’re doing some very neat works and some good literature for the percussion.” Students will have the opportunity to see solely the percussionists for the first time during the first semester. Highlighted pieces include an electro-acoustic piece with a talking marimba, a few pieces by Lou Harrison and an arrangement of a Steve Rice piece. This plethora of music types will provide something for everyone to enjoy at tahe concert, according to McConnell.

In addition, the upcoming concert will give the percussionists themselves the opportunity to show off their craft to their peers and provide satisfaction for all the work they have done thus far.

According to Welch, being a part of the percussion concert is more than just practicing their instruments, it is a chance to grow close and have fun while bettering their musical talent. As she said, “I really enjoy being a percussionist because of just all the different music; it’s just a more exciting atmosphere, and I really like the ensemble aspect of it.”

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