As the season of love comes to an end, we have yet to express our love and appreciation towards the Soaring Eagle Band’s annual Night of Percussion performance. Two Tuesdays ago, on February 10th, percussionists from grades 6 through 12 achieved a variety of selections of precise patterns with a remarkable distinction. The evening was dedicated to showcase all types of percussion instruments. From vibraphones, timpanis, and chimes, all ensemble members certainly had a blast sharing their extraordinary talents with the audience!
One notable characteristic about this event was the band’s inclusion of Intermediate and Middle School percussion students from both North and South campuses, allowing for future students to get a glimpse of the high school band experience. It is in small moments like these, band members are able to reflect and realize how significant one’s simple, yet delightful friendships and connections are throughout one’s musical journey.
The bands produced a large array of musical pieces. Intermediate North and South collaborated together and started off the night with “Rhythm Rocket”, a spirited piece showcasing “essential percussion elements” such as 2-hand independence, syncopation, and much more. Following their insightful presentation, both Middle School’s Concert, Symphonic, and Honors performed next with “Hit It!, Taiko a la Tom Tom, and Drums of Moria.” Each piece emphasized the importance of working with other groups of players to harmonize and create one meaningful masterpiece.
Then, going above and beyond as always, the Highschool Percussion performed “Stinkin’ Garbage,” which proved that even trash cans can produce complex and exciting rhythms. “Onsra,” a unique piece which translates to “long lost love”, featured multiple time signature changes, introducing both Eastern and modern pop harmonies. Additionally, it included an exquisite vibraphone solo played by Aramen Auzenne.
Following their heartfelt piece, “Man of Steel” was a composition derived from the Superman movie, symbolizing an idea of hope. “Indigo” featured another vibraphone solo gracefully performed by Sawyer King; however, this time it was ad lib. This meant that he had to play impromptu; he practically had to make up the solo on the spot without any previous preparation. “Helix” highlighted classical percussion literature, passing around a beautiful theme around the ensemble. Additionally, “Shared Space” consisted of a minimalist setup where players had to share instruments. Lastly, the Wind Ensemble Percussion closed off their selections with “The Blue Plate Special,” leaving room for one more surprise.
To close the night, percussionists from all grade levels make their grand exit with “1.21 Jigwatts,” a piece inspired by DeLorean’s flux capacitor from the Back to the Future movie. This glow in the dark performance ended the night with a truly magical moment.
No matter the occasion, the Soaring Eagle Band never fails to impress the roaring crowd at the Salt Dome Theater. Seeing the progress and dedication from each band director and student makes the Soaring Eagle Band program even more compelling. With commitment not only from our very own high schoolers, but also from Intermediate and Middle Schoolers, their effort proves that the future of the Band program is certainly bright!
