The Fair Grove High School band recently went on their annual state band performance at Camdenton High School. The band was able to secure a score of two on the pieces they presented and scored a one on sight reading.
Band Director Nataile Palomo said, “We prepare two songs that showcase different things (one is typically a lyrical piece, the other is a technical one) and work on them in band class.” When it comes to scoring a band performance, the band is given a score of one through five, one being the best a band can achieve during the performance.
Palomo said, “We also prep sight reading, by practicing sight reading in class (sight reading is where you look but don’t play, then get one shot to play a piece of music).”
Liam Draper (12) stated, “We prepare for state very similar to the way we did last year. Where about once a week we would work on sight reading. Along with that we also would practice out of state music three times a week.”
As they prepared for their performance they also had some individual goals to be worked on. To not only improve themselves but to help the concert band as a whole.
Giuliana Kandlbinder (10) added, “Some goals I have set for myself are to be a good section leader, be a strong player, and to just not give up when something isn’t going right even when it’s hard.”
Additionally, Jesse Elliston (10) explained some of his own goals by stating, “I prepared for state by practicing everyday. We played all of our songs very frequently.”
Draper said, “It feels great for our school to be known for its concert band as well as marching band. Since after marching season I think most people know us from our marching band.”
Kandlbinder also said, “I think it feels amazing to be able to represent Fair Grove at state level, because it just shows how far and hard the band works. It’s a chance for us to be even more recognized.”
Along with the concert band scoring a two on their performances, solo and ensembles from the Fair Grove Band were able to perform at their districts on March 23rd. Soloists and small groups from the band prepare a piece to perform in front of judges similar to the concert band state performance.
As the year progresses to the end, the band continues to prepare for upcoming concerts and performances to represent Fair Grove’s music departments and schools. The next concert for the Fair Grove High School Band will be the Spring Concert taking place on May 2.
