On April 22, the school’s band program took the stage for its final concert of the year, featuring the Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Explorations in Music, and a variety of student-led chamber groups. From silly bits conducted by the Band Director to full-on performances that filled the room with emotion, the night was truly memorable.
The Symphonic Band opened the program with Red Giant, a song inspired by space, the stars at its center, and most importantly, THE SUN. It was bold and loud, emanating energy, and immediately showcased steady improvement by using what would be considered an easy piece and turning it into a high school-level production.
Then they followed up by playing a song that had every child glued to the screens last summer, something addicting, and maybe also a tad annoying if you asked their parents – K-Pop Demon Hunters: Golden. If you asked the band how they felt about playing it, you wouldn’t receive too many enthusiastic responses, but their performance was energetic and engaging, with the percussion section playing a key role in tying the piece together.
They ended their time on stage with a blast from the past, as Marty McFly rolled onto stage and the band played the theme from Back to the Future. Their bassoon player, Justin Klatt, took on the role of Marty, decked out in the iconic neon vest, jeans, and a recorder for good measure. Klatt talks about his experience, “Playing Marty McFly in the band concert was such a unique experience as it brought the music from just sounds to a real experience.” All in all, the Symphonic Band had a great first year playing at Chatham High School, and I can’t wait to listen to what they come up with next year.
Next, the multiple chamber groups, a new addition to the regular band program, that really were quite a delight. Students got into groups of about 5 students to play pieces of their choosing, without a conductor or the help of a director. The performances were all student-led and showcased the exceptional work that can be produced when different bands come together for music. The smaller setting brought out individual roles that created an intimate atmosphere for the audience.
Lastly, the Wind Ensemble tied up the entire show, starting with the Witch and the Saint, which was a beautiful 10-minute performance. The song is meant to depict the lives of two twin girls in the 15th century, Helena and Sibylla, beginning with a mystical and mysterious opening, turning intense to match their struggles, and resolving in a dramatic rescue. While this was a Wind Ensemble piece, many proficient symphonic band members were asked to help out to finish the piece and make it the best it could possibly be. Music is meant to bring people together, and this was a true example of that happening.
The next song they performed was Danny Boy, a classic that brought out emotions from band director Mx. Lemley. The song was a dedication to their mother, as the goal was to pick a song that truly meant something to them. During the concert, they talked about how Danny Boy was the first time their mother thought they were musicians and not just a person with a trombone. The vast emotions that Mx. Lemley felt when hearing this song were bottled up and released for the audience as the Wind Ensemble played their tune.
Lastly, they ended with a medley from The Incredibles. One of the greatest cartoon superhero movies, this song brought energy and vibrance. A select few members of the band showed up wearing superhero capes (obviously in concert black), and both their capes and music shone through the auditorium.
The entire band ended the night with the final piece performed together, Rampage. The name of the song can only speak for itself as robust, bold, and an all-time favorite that could get stuck in your head all day long if you let it. (Try taking a math test with that song stuck in your head. P.S., it’s not fun).
All in all, the Spring Band Concert was definitely one to remember, and I hope those who made it had an amazing time. The final performance serves as both a celebration of hard work and a send-off to the remarkable seniors who dedicated their years to this group.
