The Big Sandy music program has grown to 30 students in band and 43 in choir. There were 8 students chosen from Big Sandy for the North Central Honor Band and Choir that took place on Nov. 27 and 28 at Choteau High School. The students had to submit an audition along with an application. The band students had to play two scales, a chromatic scale, an expressive etude, and a technical etude. The choir students had to sing two scales, an arpeggio exercise, and the first verse of America, all without piano accompaniment. There were about 140 students from 22 different schools in North Central Montana who participated in the event. The students and the guest conductors rehearsed for two days and then gave a concert at the end of the second day. The following band students were chosen: Audrey Sipler-Flute, Abriana Blanton-Flute, Jozlyn Baumann-Clarinet, Grace Finke-Alto Clarinet, and Bailey Gasvoda-Alto Saxophone. The following choir students were chosen: Sophia Reichelt-Alto 2, Tyler Schwarzbach-Bass 1, and Jordan Schwarzbach-Bass 1. There were two students chosen for the All-Star Band in Missoula by nominations from the band director. Audrey Sipler on flute and Sophia Reichelt on Alto Saxophone went to Missoula Nov. 10-12 to rehearse and give a concert with a couple hundred students from 6 different states. They also got to perform with the Grizzly Marching Band before the Griz game.
Many studies have been done that prove the importance and impact of music to our students in schools, including higher test scores, higher IQ's and better language development. I won't go into the details on those studies, but I would like to touch on just a few of the many things that music has to offer. Music involves more than just singing or playing an instrument. Sure, you have to understand the notes, rhythms, and symbols before you can play or sing, but then you have to connect to it and convey that message to the listening audience. Music is math, science, history, foreign language, physical education, and an art. It is a way for an individual to express themselves and their feelings that can be understood in all languages around the world.
The High School Christmas Concert held December 12th was a time to share our love of music and the holiday season with the community members. Mrs. Robertson tries to make it fun and enjoyable for everyone involved. She believes everyone in the band and choir knows their part and work as a team in order for our group to be successful. The kids have done a great job of showing support for one another and helping fellow classmates when it is needed. Mrs. Robertson is extremely proud to be the music teacher of such fine kids at Big Sandy Schools.
The Grade School Christmas Concert is December 14th. The excitement of our grade= school children is so much fun to watch. Let us pack the High School auditorium to enjoy the music of the season.
