Glenn’s Trumpet Notes

Symphonic Band, Kenmore Jr. High, 79 members

I had heard about the exceptionally strong music program at Kenmore Jr. High, and on 14 March, I heard with my own ears what the fuss is all about—an outstanding school concert, loaded with young star musicians, including a trumpet player whom I tutor! [See my blog post of 13 November 2010, for more about this student.]

Almost 200 students comprise the three bands and seven ensembles which performed under the leadership of Debbie Montague, Ph.D., Director of Instrumental Music. Her command and control were flawless, and the music she selected was challenging and entertaining. She attracts and produces high-achievers. Consistently, many of her students are winners in various band and ensemble competitions. She says that in band, they learn not only music but also concentration and responsibility. Those are great character traits to carry with them into Inglemoor High School and beyond.

The Symphonic Band supplied the peak performance of the evening, playing Triumphant Fanfare by Richard Saucedo; On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss by David R. Holsinger; and Earthdance by Michael Sweeney.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The Symphonic Band is participating in the prestigious Festival of Gold at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County, Los Angeles, CA, 30 March-3 April. This festival combines with the Festival at Carnegie Hall to create the Elite Performance Series. Only ensembles that have received a Gold rating at a WorldStrides Heritage music festival or regional festival are accepted into Festival of Gold. The Honor Concert culminates the festival weekend and features the highest scoring ensembles of the festival.

See www.scfta.org and http://www.worldstridesheritageperformance.org/fog/festival_of_gold.php.

As part of the remodeling project now underway at Kenmore Jr. High, a new band room is being readied for use late this school year. It will include a built-in recording system to record the bands and various music groups.

Please click on any photo to enlarge it.