Page 21 - 2016

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concert band, jazz band, and pep band by David Lentsch

Becoming a band student requires tremendous dedication. Performers in
concert band, jazz band, and pep band prepared for winter and spring concerts, and
performances at various school events. Each ensemble had its own unique
characteristics and played a major role in Ralston’s fine arts program.
This year introduced a new director, Mr. Capron. Previously, he was Ralston
Middle School’s band instructor and transitioned to RHS this year, as Mr. Frye
moved to the middle school. ‘‘Switching directors definitely was odd. but everyone
knows Mr. Capron, which made everything positive,” explained junior Maggy
Morris. “I and many in the band miss Mr. Frye. Having a different director this
year hasn’t been difficult, besides getting used to Mr. Capron’s jokes,” says Morris.
The transition begins in October, when marching band season wraps up. “At
the end of marching band season, we get the concert band instruments out, and Mr.
Capron gives us music that we then practice every band day until our concert,” says
senior tuba player Jaycob Curran. Concert band performs classic symphonic music
four times during the school year. The band’s winter concert consisted of musical
selections geared towards the season, including “Celebrate the Season,” Russian
Christmas music, and “The Nightmare Before Christmas”. The spring concert
included “Fanfare for the Common Man,” “The Civil War”, “Aventura,” and "Big
Four March.”
Also rehearsing for these event is Ralston’s jazz band, a small group of
musicians who enjoy playing jazz ensembles. “Without a doubt, jazz band has
given me the confidence I have today in my playing,” said saxophone player
Morris. “Jazz band in middle school and high school has presented challenges to
me that I just don't usually experience in band.” The jazz band played several
winter classics such as Frosty the Snowman, Baby, It’s Cold Outside, White
Christmas, and Deck the Hall at the winter concert. At the spring concert, they
played Autumn Feaves, Emily, Minnie, The Moocher, and finally Watermelon
Man.
This year, the pep band focused on classic rock songs, which was well received
by Ralston students and the community. “Obviously. I love classic rock and that
it’s the only music I listen to. Pep band all around is fun to be apart of, so the song
choices are just another perk of participating in it,” says Morris. Curran adds that
“It’d be fun to do pep band for hockey, but we don’t have a hockey team.”
This year was full of memorable moments, including the pep band’s classic rock
theme, the basketball game at Ralston Arena, and many others. Morris added, “I
couldn't imagine my high school career without band. I highly recommend others
to join band, because it will definitely be one of the things I reminisce once I
graduate.”

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more fun?
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