The Steller Band entered a band competition during the Aurora Music Festival last week in Nenana. Our selections were “Southamton March” by Robert Sheldon and “Chorale and Shaker Dance II” by John Zdechlik. The band received the 3rd place, overall. “We really worked hard for this competition. The students were so focused and learned a lot,” said Mr. Toba, the band director. “This award is the direct result of our dedication and musicianship. I could not be more proud of our students.” The 3rd place plaque will be displayed in the Steller office.
Steller Band participated in the Aurora Music Festival in Nenana last week. During the festival, many of the band students entered solo/ensemble adjudications. The results were outstanding.
Solos Johnathen Jencks, tuba solo – superior Xavier Libbrecht, bassoon solo -Â superior Griffin Lindsay, French horn solo -Â superior Tatiana Rogers, flute solo -Â superior Erica Stryker, trumpet solo -Â superior Kohlby Vierthaler, trombone solo -Â superior
Small Ensembles Erica and Kohlby, brass duet – superior Tatiana and Arnan Anthony, mixed duetTatiana and Gabe Krompacky (Susitna Valley High School), woodwind duet – superior
The soloist would like thank Marcia Stratman for providing the piano accompaniment.
The entries that received superior ratings earned the right to participate in the state solo/ensemble festival in May. Furthermore, Tatiana was the first nominee for the command performance, so she actually played for the command performance show. Griffin and Xavier received the 2nd nominations, too.
“Our band students prepared very well, and it showed in the results”, said Mr. Toba, the band director. “This is our 3rd year participating in the music festival. Since the first year, more and more students are eager to do even better. I am very proud of the students who went beyond the expectations.” Â
The ASAA State Solo/Ensemble Festival will be held on Friday, May 10 and Saturday, the 11th, at U.A.A.
Nobuo Toba Band Teacher ASD Fine Arts Department (907)742-0171
It is being presented by peer outreach workers at Alaska Youth Advocates. AYA runs a drop in center for youth ages 13-23, and it is located right across the Steller field (but you have to walk around and access it from Arctic.)