On Wed., Dec. 4, both the middle and high school concert bands performed in the holiday band concert. Under the direction of Mrs. Lisa Mullen, the bands performed numerous songs to a large audience.
The middle school band performed first, introducing the crowd to “Fum, Fum, Fum” arranged by Michael Story. The song had a strong opening with a marching feel in the background. They next performed “A Children’s Novel” by Larry MacTaggart. After that song, they glided into “Kings from the East” arranged by Mark WIlliams. This song was a gentle version of “We Three Kings,” containing striking parts from every instrumental group. Finally, they ended their performance with “Colors of Christmas” arranged by Robert W. Smith. The tune contained many parts of “Come, All Ye Faithful” in a broad tone.
The high school band followed the middle school band, starting strong with “Christmas Rondo” by Gene Milford. This song was a fast-paced and upbeat tune with hints of “Deck the Halls” and “Up on the Housetop” mixed in. Next, the band performed “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen” arranged by Ed Huckeby. This song starts slow, quickly picking up speed and changing time signatures several times. After that, they played “An American Hymtune” arranged by Robert Sheldon. The song is a slow, gentle song full of emotional dynamics and a tenor saxophone solo. The tempo quickly shifts with “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey and Walter Afansieff, arranged by Michael Brown. Up next was “Minka’s Sleigh Ride” by Pierre La Plante. This song was a quick, bit-by-bit song that went through many different sections. Lastly, the band ended with the classical “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson and arranged by Michael Story.
Both bands had a few Newport staff members play in sections not filled by students. Mr. Craig Betts played the tuba, Mrs. Nicole Briggs played several percussion instruments, Mrs. Carla Ebling played the bari saxophone, and Ms. Donna Stuller played the trombone.
Mullen had positive remarks regarding the performance. “Everyone came prepared and played very well. I received many compliments about the performance afterward. There’s always room for improvement, but I think they all did very well.”
The next big performance for Newport band members was PECO band on Jan. 18 at Greenwood High School. The bands will come back to Newport for another concert in the spring.
