Students to play alongside pro brass band and KHS

By Kyle Kaminski l March 02, 2015

 

The British-style brass band — comprised of 28 musicians — is slated to perform a wide range of music by composers including John Williams, William Himes, Edward Elgar and Henry Mancini. Members of KHS’s band will also join the ensemble for a rousing march by John Phillip Sousa.

 

“(Playing with students) is something we started about three years ago,” Conductor Ralph Schweigart said. “It’s really successful. The band and the students love it. Kids get the chance to sit next to some really strong players and see what it’s like on a more professional level.”
 

 

When planning the program, Schweigart said he tries to keep in mind that people listen to music in different ways. Under his direction, the band will present its aptly-named performance “Something for Everyone,” at 3 p.m.

 

“Some people listen with their heads, others with their hearts and still others with their feet,” he said. “I try to include music that will appeal to all of these listening styles on any one program.”

 

The brass band, which has attracted adult players from all across northern Michigan, has been creating music for about 15 years, drawing members from Alpena, Petoskey and Mackinac City among others.
 

While the band has presented more than 100 concerts throughout the state since its creation in 1999, this will be the first time performing in Kalkaska. Schweigart said he’s confident the community will enjoy the music.
 

“I think the community will love it if they come out to see us,” he said. “We’ll be playing something for everyone.”
 

The newly-constructed performing arts center, Schweigart said, was also a significant reason for the band selecting Kalkaska High School as its next concert location.
 

Admission to the concert is $10 for adults. All students can attend at no cost. The band is also a 501(c) (3) organization and is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Continued...