Recap on Annual Band Festival

By Lauren Swanson
Courier Staff

Eighty students from 10 different high schools came to Monmouth College on Saturday, Jan. 21 for the Monmouth College High School Honor Band Festival.

According to Stephen Richter, lecturer and director of instrumental music activities, this festival was used as a recruiting tool for the college and to reach out to area schools.

The day began with sight reading and sectional rehearsals.

During their lunch break, the students had the option of taking a tour of campus or auditioning for a fine arts scholarship.

After lunch, there was more rehearsal, with a 4 p.m. concert to finish the day.

The concert included “Celebration” by Walter Mead, “Mandolin Landscape” by Phillip Sparke, “Persistence” by Richard Saucedo and “Echo’s” by Samuel Hazo, which was conducted by freshman Aaron Flatt.

In addition, MC band members participated throughout the day.

Each band member was paired with a high school student and served as their mentor.

This is an annual festival that occurs on the first Saturday after Christmas Break.