A SONG OF HOPE. Hans Christian Anderson once said, "Where words fail, music speaks.” Music is a way to express emotion and creativity. The Valley Heights Wind Ensemble has been hard at work preparing to show their emotion and creativity at the Valley Height Arts Gala, and their contest in April. The ensemble includes both high school and eighth grade students. They will be playing “Black Forest Overture", by Michael Sweeney, and “A Song of Hope”, by James Swearingen. “Black Forest Overture” is a calming piece with lots of clarinet and percussion showcases. In comparison, “A Song of Hope” showcases the flute and brass sections.
During the 2022-2023 school year, the band is trying something new. Instead of only high school students competing at contest, they have added eighth graders to form the Valley Heights Mixed Wind Ensemble. This group has an abundance of young talent and potential. Isabella Smith, eighth grader, says her favorite part of Black Forest Overture is when the clarinets have beautiful exposed parts that really showcase their talents. “I love that we get to be a part of the high school ensemble, it's a lot of fun and I know we will do well at contest.”
KMEA State Band Contest for 2A schools is on April 19th in Beloit. Last year, the band played Chesford Portrait, by James Swearingen, and Loch Lomond, by JaRod Hall. The band has played A Song of Hope before, two years ago, at the spring concert. This song was dedicated to a friend and classmate, Joe Brungardt. This piece was one of Joe’s favorites, and he continues to inspire us today. Band Director, Ben Worcester, chose this song for the contest program this year, because he thinks the band has enough skill and musical emotion to make this piece a beautiful tribute to a friend.
The Valley Heights Wind Ensemble has worked hard all spring and they are confident in their ability to obtain a high ranking at contest. After contest, the band will perform these songs at the Valley Heights Arts Gala on April 26th.
Article By: Harmony Conti