(Courtesy/Ms. Lucas)
Academy’s band hosted its final concert in the Mack Gym on Tuesday, April 28, playing four tunes and honoring its 18 seniors (Adam A., Graham A., Adlana D., Marc D., Dilin G., Nathan M., Nico M., Aubree M., Sarauv M., Nolen M., Chaz M., Marceline O., Josh S., Lauren S., Rachel S., Eesha T., Jayden T., and Aashi V.), and award-winners in between.
The band opened with the lively “Highlights from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” arranged by Robert Longfield, which included “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” “Oompa Loompa,” and “Pure Imagination.” The playful piece, led off and capped by the powerful brass arrangement “Pure Imagination,” reflected the nostalgia that defined the seniors’ time at Academy, serving as a fitting tribute to their preparation to enter a new chapter in their lives.
Following “Willy Wonka,” Ms. Sneeringer and Ms. O’Rourke announced this year’s letter and pin award winners, for a total of 23. A letter represents tremendous dedication to the band program and the performing arts. For students to letter, they must earn six points through activities, such as being in the jazz band or the play or the musical, scoring at Solo & Ensemble, or participating in Honor Bands.
Next, the first drumline took the stage, led by instructor Mr. Ben Reineke, performing a trio of cadences in preparation for next year’s football games during the Pep Band season. Then the full band performed the romantic musical drama “La La Land,” arranged by Michael Brown. Featuring solos from Graham A. (trumpet) and Sarav M. (saxophone), the arrangement included “Another Day of Sun,” “Mia & Sebastian’s Theme,” “City of Stars,” and “Audition (The Fools Who Dream).”
Band awards were next in line, with freshman Iris S. (flute) winning Most Improved Musician and grades 9-10 percussion winning Most Improved section. Gia C. (percussion) was voted Outstanding New Member. The night’s biggest award, the national John Philip Sousa Award, went to senior Marceline O. for her superior musicianship, outstanding dedication, and supportive leadership. Band co-presidents Josh S. and Lauren S. concluded the ceremony by surprising their directors with flowers and teary-eyed, heartfelt words of gratitude.
The band continued with its third performance of the night: “The Song Without Words,” arranged by Gustav Holst, was shorter and slower-paced, featuring long, powerful clarinet melodies.
The final number,“Ruckus”, a fast-paced, percussion-heavy song arranged by Randall Standridge, featured quick transitions from 5/4 to 4/4 and back again, as well as confident percussion solos performed by Sujay B. and Nate Y.
A senior reception in the athletic lobby allowed students and their families to socialize and take photos.
Congratulations to the band for a wonderful final concert.
