Bridgewater, Va. – In a performance, which was also a fundraiser for the Screaming Eagles Marching Band’s trip to London, the 33-member Symphonic Band performed seven pieces on Sunday, March 27 in Cole Hall.

For their opening piece, the band performed “Sun Dance” by Frank Ticheli. The piece included two uncommon instruments: the soprano saxophone and French horn.

Conductor and Associate Professor of Music Christine Carrillo introduced Director of Athletic Bands Barry Flowe, who spoke about the London trip. 

“We have been invited to London,” said Flowe. “About a month ago, Winston Churchill’s grandson came here to give a formal invite.” 

Flowe later said that Judy Nolen Henneberger, class of ‘64, offered to match dollar-for-dollar to $10,000.

Carrillo then introduced the next piece by Samuel R. Hazo, called “Perthshire Majesty”.

Next, “Let Me Be Frank With You” by John Mackey was introduced. Mackey was writing the piece when he realized it sounded a bit like Ticheli’s. After a phone call, the piece was left alone once both parties realized the piece was not the one by Ticheli.

In memory of our fallen heroes, J.J. Jefferson and John Painter, “When Peace Like a River” was played. Gary Fagan, class of ‘73, wrote the piece in the heroes’ memories and for those who attended the performance.

The next piece was an arrangement of “Shenandoah” by Omar Thomas.

Carrillo then introduced the graduating seniors: Kevin Epps on the alto and soprano saxophone, Najee Griffin on the piccolo, Chris Larson on the piccolo and percussionist Kalia Page. Carrillo announced that Larson was named as the recipient of the outstanding senior award.

“Paper Cut” by Alex Shapiro was performed mainly with paper. Adding pre-recorded sounds, the musicians tore and smashed paper before lifting up their own instruments for a grand finale.

The last piece was called “Crush” by Robert W. Smith.

“The concert was all living composers. I tried to pick a variation of styles of music and so we had a piece with electronics, world premiers of pieces and pieces that are standard in the wind band repertoire,” said Carrillo. “The students have worked really hard this semester and it paid off.”

First-years included flutist Katie Johnson, oboist Tara Martin, clarinet player Ashlyn Fogleman, alto saxophone player Jamie Rexrode, trumpet player Nathan Sullivan, euphonium and bass guitarist Owen Angell and  tubists Daniel Showalter and Mya Holmes. Percussionists included Julian Jacobs, Grayson Preece, Hannah Simmers and Logan West. On the clarinet was Maggie Hostetler and on the trombone was Sarah Alexander. 

Sophomores included baritone saxophone player Hailey Chaney and trombone player Marshall Ritchie.

Juniors included Hannah McPherson on the bass clarinet, bassoonist Diamond Hawkins and tenor saxophone player Heather Knott. Trumpets included Luke Cronin, Wyatt Smith and Nikolas Hicks. Flutes included Emma Brown. Jordan Deitz played trumpet.

For the senior class, Dharakshan Shaikh played the horn and Kai Bowman played the euphonium.