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MCS Concert Band to hold first concert
Mount Carmel School is inviting the community to its Spring Band Concert tonight, Friday, May 4, at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center, starting at 6pm. The concert will feature the school’s concert band, conducted by Julian Greening, and the Saipan Pacific Winds Concert Band, conducted by Atsuko Eck.
Members of Mount Carmel School’s Concert Band rehearse for their Spring Band Concert under the direction of conductor Julia Greening, far left. (MCS)
Greening is very excited about the concert. “The audience should expect the joy of music,” he said, “especially for parents and guardians of band students. They will see how much their kids have improved throughout this year because they worked so hard.”
The school revived its band this school year after working for two years to build a budget to fund the teaching position and start-up costs for the program. While the program has featured student performances in various shows throughout the year, the Spring Band Concert will serve as the program’s first official performance since starting in August of last year.
Reviving the program has not been easy, though. As Greening put it, “Starting from scratch was difficult because of equipment problems such as non-working instruments and having no stands.” Fortunately, the school supported the program. “With the support of school administration, I was able to begin band practices in a suitable condition.”
Despite this rough start, the music program has been a positive experience for its students.
Fifth-grade student Malina Tenorio said, “It’s hard, but it’s really fun. Mr. Greening is strict but positive. I’ve enjoyed everyone in the band.” For the upcoming concert, Tenorio looks forward to performing Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in an ensemble.
Greening has been very happy with the progress of the students. “I was very amazed to see many talented musicians at Mount Carmel School and I am very happy to work with all the students here. I am looking forward teaching next school year and see how they develop.”
Admission for Mount Carmel School’s Spring Band Concert will be free of charge. Doors for the show will open at 5:30pm. (PR)
