TMS Band Delivers Top Notch Performances Statewide
By Elaine F. Hall
There was no need for a reality show to showcase the talents of 22 soloists and 20 ensembles, all students of the Tolt Middle School Band. These hard working and talented students impressed judges and wowed the audience at the Tolt Middle School Solo and Ensemble Festival that took place on Saturday, March 25th . Each student played a classical piece of music of their choice in front of an audience and three judges.
Judges for the event included Riverview School District Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Neil Proff, Interim Cedarcrest High School Music teacher, and Mr. John Werth, former North Kitsap High School Band Director. These judges coached each student on their performances, offered expert tips, and provided each student with a personal comment sheet, certificate of completion and a ribbon to reward their individual talents.
From this same group of talented students, 11 soloists and 10 small ensembles took the tips and comments to heart, worked hard to improve their talents and then participated in the Tolt Recital held on April 3rd. Highlights from the recital include the opening act duo of Leah Malek and Meghan McDonnell playing Ludwig van Beethoven's "Ecossaise" on alto sax, followed by Connor Regan on alto sax playing "Star Wars" by John Williams, Zachary Matheny on clarinet performing "The Secret Garden " by Doug Higgins, and Xavier DelCastillo on tenor sax mastering "The Pink Panther" by Henry Mancini.
Talent is the name of the game for the TMS bands. In addition to the above stellar performances, several students are worthy of special attention for their individual accomplishments.
Sixth grade oboe player, Nick Vergara, has been selected to be a member of the Bellevue Youth Symphony. He will be joining 8th grade bassoonist, Margaret Shell, who is already a member of the symphony.
Three 7th grade band members, Josh Denisin, Electra Korn and Jessica Knoth, have been selected to play in the Washington Music Educators Association All-State Band. They will be performing at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in Olympia on Saturday, October 28 at 4:30 pm under the direction of band director Patrick Winters from Eastern Washington University .
The TMS band has many more playing engagements coming up providing the community several opportunities to enjoy the musical pieces of this talented band. On May 2nd , they will be performing during the opening day of Carnation's Farmers Market. On May 5th, all TMS bands will be hosting two concerts at Tolt Middle School starting at 6:30 pm and 7:40 pm . Then again in downtown Seattle on May 15th as the 8th Grade Band takes center stage at the Seattle International Children's Festival at Seattle Center . Their performance will begin at 12:00 pm .