On Friday, March 8th, the hardworking students of the NHHS Jazz Band, Herbie Hancock Jazz Combo, Indoor Drumline, and Symphonic Band came together to perform the March Instrumental Music Concert.
The students practiced since January for this concert, which among many brilliant pieces, consisted of two pieces performed earlier that week at Cal State Long Beach as well as a performance of the Drumline’s competition piece.
“The concert on Friday was a hit,” commented Ellia Castellanos, Senior Clarinet. “I think the fact that we have our parents watching us gives us a sense of confidence, that we have people supporting us who aren’t in the band. It helps us believe what we worked for paid off, and [this] ultimately makes our performance better.
For the Indoor Drumline members, as well as the wind ensemble, there was nervousness among the band members. A lot of the Drumline members are first-time members of the band, so they worked extremely hard to make sure their contribution to the concert was nothing short of fantastic.
A lot of the hard work and dedication, the long hours before and after school, add up to something meaningful, as Castellanos comments: “[Being in the band] helped me create great bonds with incredible people, as well as a deeper connection to music and an appreciation for playing it.”
Students and parents were not the only ones attending the concert; in attendance as well were some of NHHS’s favorite teachers.
One teacher in particular, Ms Bunis, remarked on the joy of seeing students achieve their passions: “I have a bunch of students in jazz band this year… [and] I wanted to come. It’s fun to see students doing something that I don’t get to normally see them do.”
Band director Mr Sharp also was pleased with the results of the concert: “I think the concert went really well, I was very pleased. Good turnout, and acoustics…the kids played great.”
When asked if being in band helps students develop life and leadership skills, Sharp exclaimed that it does help immensely: “The biggest [skill], of course ….[is] being able to work with one another, and as long as we have a supportive, positive environment, then my job’s easy.”
