Ingomar Middle Band Concert Reflection

Entry Dated: 2009-12-18 01:02:08
Entry:

Last night, I was excited to visit Ingomar Middle (my alma mater) and experience the music my sister and her friends have been perfecting since September.  I was surprised and thrilled to see that three of the songs on my sister's program were ones that I also had read in the sixth grade band.  One of the songs, Frosty the Snowman, had even been pulled from my band's program because it was too difficult.

I was delighted to experience all four of their selections.  For a group of students who have been playing instruments for just over two years, they are very advanced in areas of dynamics, tempo, and articulation.  This was made evident by the contrasting pieces in their repertoire.  The first song, Holiday Magic, made use of strong melodies and motives.  The next selection, All Through the Silent Night, was slow in tempo.  The group managed to play lyrically, use soft dynamics, and keep a clear tone all while staying with the tempo.  I was impressed and astonished to hear such young players effectively playing such a piece.

Frosty the Snowman was impressive as well.  The attacks and bouncy rhythms were articulate.  However, the parts within sections did not seem to be evenly distributed.  For most of the song, it was a struggle to hear the melody over the lower harmonies.  The band closed the show with a The Marines' Hymn.  It was played strongly, and overall an effectively patriotic way to end the concert.

Hearing my sister perform in her first middle school concert made me not only a proud older sister, but a proud musician to hear how far the bands at Ingomar Middle have come.  I can't wait for her next show in the spring! 

Period: Period 10
Activity: Music - Concert Reflection