The Arcadia High School (AHS) Wind Ensemble partnered up with Azusa Pacific University School of Music’s (APU) Wind Ensemble for a stellar performance of woodwinds and brasses. On Apr. 1, the two bands performed in the AHS Performing Arts Center. The production was a wonderful way to start off spring break and offered students a glimpse at musicality beyond high school.

APU is a local college that offers a variety of music related majors including composition, commercial music, and performance. Their Wind Ensemble is led by director Dr. John Burdett, who was the founding director and conductor of the Southern California Philharmonic. The AHS Wind Ensemble was led by Mr. Kevin Sherrill and Mr. Tom Plunkett. 

The night began with AHS playing “Molly on the Shore” by Percy Grainger, “O Magnum Mysterium” by Morten Lauridsen arr. Reynolds, and “First Suite for Band, I”. March by Alfred Reed. Their brief repertoire was followed by the APU ensemble performing “March, Op. 99” by Sergei Prokofiev, “Second Suite in F for Military Band” by Gustav Holst, “Sleep” by Eric Whitacre, and “Four Dances” from West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein. The two groups came together for a concert finale, showcasing “Dedicatory Overture” by Clifton Williams and “First Suite for Band, IV Gallop” by Alfred Reed.

Sophomore Gregory Zhu plays clarinet in AHS’ Wind Ensemble. He was particularly struck by the uniformity and musicality of the APU band.

“I think it was compelling to watch them perform, since despite being smaller, their ensemble had a clearer and rounder sound,” said Zhu. “I also think that through their performances and them playing some pieces with us, we [got] a better idea how to balance ourselves when playing.”

Jeremiah Jun is a sophomore in the Wind Ensemble and plays the trumpet. There was only one rehearsal with APU, and it was on the day of the concert.

“We rehearsed from 5:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and that was all we really needed to have a good performance,” said Jun. 

One thing about the APU ensemble that really struck Jun was their cohesiveness and strict rehearsal etiquette.

“Because they are a college group, their etiquette was definitely more professional than what you’d see within our classroom,” he said. “It wasn’t unexpected but it was fun to be in such a big performance.” 

Individually, the APU band also had strong players that stood out during well-practiced solos.

“I think there was a baritone solo that was really nice,” said Zhu. “Oh, I also liked their bass clarinet player.” He corrected himself by saying, “I guess overall they were impressive, like with all the pieces they played.”

Both players definitely left the concert feeling more awe-inspired by the impressive professionalism and musicality of APU’s Wind Ensemble. The combined concert was a unique experience, and not one the players or audience will forget anytime soon.

Photo courtesy of Ronald Lee