SHS Band Students Shine At Spring Concert

Written by: Olivia Giralt 

On Tuesday, May 7, The Sparta High School Freshman/Symphonic Band and Honors Wind Ensemble gathered to perform at another successful spring band concert. The Symphonic Band is directed by Mr. Lopez and the Honors Wind Ensemble is directed by Dr. Gianuzzi. Student-teacher, Mr. Wagner, from Rutgers University, conducted several songs throughout the concert.

The concert started with the Freshman/Symphonic Band, playing songs such as "El Relicario," "Reverberations," "An American Elegy," and "Symphony No. 4" for Winds and Percussion. “I picked a lot of specific music for the symphonic band for specific reasons. I was attached to music and programmed what I felt was very challenging music for my group,” Mr. Lopez explained.

Before the group played "An American Elegy," the Honors Chorus grouped with the Freshman/Symphonic Band to rise and sing the Columbine Alma Mater, composed in memory of those who lost their lives at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999.  

 

Following the Symphonic Band was the Honors Wind Ensemble performance. “I gave you guys quite a challenge, a lot of hard work,” Dr. Gianuzzi addressed the Wind Ensemble.

The Wind Ensemble worked very hard to prepare for songs like "Pineapple Poll," "American Salute," "Homeward Bound," "Into Moonlight’s Mist," and Overture to “Candide.” “The concert was stellar, and that’s because we had to work really hard,” reflects Dr. Gianuzzi.  

The Honors Chorus sang along to Homeward Bound during the Honors Wind Ensemble performance.  

Throughout the concert, various scholarships and awards were given to commendable seniors. Ryan Scott and Amanda Friesen were awarded The Directors Award-- an award given to students who are worthy of being recognized for always giving their very best work and performance in band. Percussionist, Evan Silberstein, received the Matt Cowell Award. The Matt Cowell is given by the Cowell family, in honor of their son Matt Cowell. The John Phillips Award is awarded to top band member Liz Utzkins. Two scholarships were provided by the booster club and rewarded to Joe Dempsey and Liz Utzkins.

During the 2018-19 school year, the Sparta High School bands were given the opportunity of being taught by Student-Teacher, Mr. Wagner. Mr. Wagner reflects on his experience working with the Sparta bands: “Thank you to everyone in Sparta who has given me so much opportunity for growth and for welcoming me with such opening arms over the past year. Sparta has truly become a home away from home and I will cherish these memories forever.” Mr. Wagner is an extraordinary Student-Teacher that will always be appreciated and remembered by Sparta High School band members.