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- Senior Isabel Meigs and junior Nick Roberts play “Arabesque” by Samuel R. Hazo with the Wind Ensemble.
by Peter Diamond
Eighth grade musicians from Bigelow and Day middle schools joined members of this school’s Wind Ensemble E-block yesterday in 164 to share music and to learn about the fine and performing arts department.
Fine and performing arts department head Todd Young welcomed the middle school students.
“We appreciate that you’re here, and we so appreciate the work your music teachers have done to get you here,” Young said to the middle school musicians.
Young described the music classes offered at this school, naming each ensemble and elective within the fine and performing arts department.
Music teacher Richard Labedz addressed the students next. He described the fine and performing arts department as “a family.”
“Hopefully as you come into high school, you’ll find a home here and make new friends, in addition to continuing friendships you started in middle school,” said Labedz.
This school’s Wind Ensemble performed “Arabesque” by Samuel R. Hazo, conducted by Labedz.
Labedz then explained that each instrumental section of the Wind Ensemble performs as a chamber ensemble, which is a group of musicians who all play the same instrument and who perform without a conductor.
“Chamber ensembles are a great way for students to play different music, and an opportunity for them to be responsible for their own part,” said Labedz.
To exemplify, the Flute Ensemble played “Lake Solace” by Catherine McMichael.
Next, musicians from the middle schools played.
The eighth graders from the Day Symphonic Band played “The Tempest” by Robert W. Smith, which was conducted by Day music teacher Gary Fox.
“It’s not a very hard piece, but it’s great for phrasing and articulation,” said Fox.
Bigelow’s Symphonic Band played “Bridgewater March” by Steve Hodges, which was conducted by Bigelow music teacher Gregory Livingston. Trombonists from this school filled in for absent Bigelow musicians.
Labedz finished the event by addressing the entire group.
“I think that all the musicians today were fantastic,” said Labedz. “If that’s any indication of what’s happening on the Northside, we’re building a great program.”
