On Wednesday, Feb. 20, the Band Side by Side Concert was held in the Arcadia Performing Arts Center.

Flute Section Leader, Elisha Wang explained that rehearsals took place every Wednesday, for an hour and fifteen minutes, during the first half of February. Bringing back the fun pieces that they played when they were younger, the Band 3 students were able to reminisce in pieces like “Star Wars,” “Joy,” “Antiquates,” and “The Headless Horseman,” as well as more the famous “Arcadia Alma Mater.” Elisha stated that most importantly, the kids had a lot of fun, and although “they may [have been] a bit shy at first…[they] are typically excited to play with” the band at the end of the concert. As a section leader, she felt that it was “cool to set an example as a musician and teach them things such as writing side notes on music.”

“The Side by Side Concert is an annual concert involving students enrolled in Band 3 and advanced elementary school musicians,” Alicia Ying, Tuba Section Leader, described. By practicing in AHS’ band room with conducting from the “three music teachers at each elementary school, Mr. Murphy, and Mr. Sherrill,” the young hard working musicians were prepared for the biggest concert that they’ve ever had. From pieces like “Rienzi,” “Firefly,” and “Antiquitus,” a lot of musical talent was put to work.

As a second-year Alto Saxophone Section Leader, Carolyne Kim also engaged in helping elementary school students learn more about music. Doubling as the current AHS drum major, Carolyne is used to acting as a leader. This month, she was happy to be able to work with “a selective group of fifth graders from each elementary school” who were “invited to play with the Band 3 ensemble.”

After hours of rehearsal, this performance incorporated the highest level of music students in the district and young beginners that surely all friends, families, and fans enjoyed!

Photo courtesy of DCI Intern Sarah Wang