On Monday, December 8, 2023, the I-35 Bands, directed by Mr. Nick McKinney, showcased their skills at the Winter Band Concert. The evening began with the 5th grade students demonstrating the skills they have acquired over the last several weeks of band practices, and walked the audience through their learning process. The students then showcased their talents by playing selections from their “Essential Elements” band book by Lautzenheiser. These students already show a great deal of potential and with Mr. McKinney’s guidance will become valuable members of the ever-growing band program.
Following the 5th grade band, the 6th grade students took to the stage to show their progress over the last year. The students played three songs which included “Starsplitter Fanfare” by Brian Balmages, “Tadpoles” by Randall D. Strandridge, and a very unique piece entitled “Santa’s Noisy Workshop” arranged by Larry Clark which included an unusual instrument - a power drill!
After the 6th grade band, the combined 7th and 8th grade band took their turn in the spotlight. These young musicians played three songs to demonstrate their most recent growth - “African Bell Carol” by Robert W. Smith, “Amber Skies” by Jonathan McBride, and “Nightfury” by Carol Brittin Chambers.
Following the younger musicians, the high school band was ready to showcase their skills. The talented high school students played “Let Heaven and Nature Sing!” by Robert W. Smith, “Moon of Winter” by Vince Gassi, and “Wintertide” by Randall D. Sandridge.
Between each song, preselected students introduced the arrangement, discussing the composer and providing context to each piece which allowed the students ownership in the concert and their music. The I-35 Band program currently has 106 students and each of them are becoming more comfortable in front of an audience and on stage. Each musical selection showcased all the students’ talents, audience members were able to see the incredible growth of our young Roadrunner musicians over the last two years. Audience members were even given a sneak peek of the new marching band uniforms that the I-35 Band students have been fundraising for. To date, the students have raised over $10,000 towards their goal of $25,000 for new marching band uniforms. Mr. McKinney indicated that they hope to have all the necessary funds to purchase the new band uniforms within the next two years.
Thank you to everyone who attended the concert and a huge thank you to the community for all their support!
