Antietam students learn by preparing museum "walk of heroes"
The PWCS music program proves to be world-class again as the Gar-Field High School Symphonic Band was one of six bands from across the globe invited to perform at the 2006 Disney Honors National Concert Band and Orchestra Invitational. The thirty-five student, advanced-level ensemble joined bands from California, South Carolina, and Japan for a skill-building event that treated the young musicians to professional evaluation clinics with industry professionals, instructional seminars with distinguished music educators, exclusive performances by some of Disney’s own bands, and seats at a grand finale gala held at Walt Disney World.
“The trip to Disney was an awe-inspiring experience for everyone involved,” says Mark Carder, conductor for the Gar-Field Symphonic Band. “The clinics and seminars were very good in reminding us why we take music in the first place. [The instructors] spent time on moving the students to the next level in their musical development by emphasizing the importance of individual musical exploration and achievement.”
The band performed three songs before a panel of judges including Paula Crider, professor emeritus at University of Texas; Richard Floyd, state director of music and activities at the University of Texas; Dr. David Littrell, distinguished professor of music at Kansas State University; Dr. Sarah McKoin, director of bands at Texas Tech University; and Jun-Ho Park, music director of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. Immediately following their performance, the band participated in an
onstage clinic with Floyd and McKoin.
“The band performed their best performance of the year at Disney. I’m not sure if it was because of the excitement of the trip, the opportunity to play for the other bands, or the clinics and seminars that inspired them to play a performance that was truly inspiring and exemplified tremendous individual effort throughout the ensemble,” says Carder.
In addition to their performance, the band participated in a welcome breakfast and orientation and was treated to special performances by the Magic Kingdom Saxophone Quartet, the Epcot Mariachi Band, and vocal performers 4:2:Five. The ensemble was also presented with The Disney Honors Award for outstanding musical achievement.
4/25/06
