This March has been a busy week for the jazz ensemble and both the concert bands. The concert bands have had their formal concert, the MSHSAA State Band Festival and the Palen Concert in Hammons Hall at Missouri State University. During these performances the Symphonic Band played “Big Four” by Karl L. King arr. by James Swearingen, “Ammerland” by Jacob de Haan, “Canto” by Francis McBeth, and “Kentucky 1800″ by Clare Grundman. The Wind Ensemble played “Carnegie Anthem” by William Owens, “Chorale and Shaker Dance” by John Zdechlik, “Shenandoah” by Omar Thomas and “Cave You Fear” by Micheal Markowski. At the MSHSAA festival Symphonic Band earned a 1 rating and Wind Ensemble earned a 2, with 1 being the highest rating and 4 being the lowest. 

The jazz ensemble went to Jefferson City on March 22 to perform and learn at the Fine Arts Education Day at the state capitol. There they performed “Missing You” by Mike Tomaro and “No Harm No Foul” by Kris Berg. The group has been working on an arrangement of “You’re Welcome” by Lin Manuel Miranda arr.  by John Wasson to perform at Shook Elementary for the 5th grade band testing. 

On March 25, band members who have been working on their own solos and ensembles have been working since before winter break performed at districts. Many soloists and some groups got an exemplary rating advancing them to state. There were also many members who got outstanding and satisfactory ratings, but will not be going to state.