Band Showcases Talent at Winter Concert

Mr. Alexander Jung listens in as students tune their instruments

30 minutes before showtime

By TIFFANY NGO and JAMIE SERRANO

’Tis the season to be playing! Band students showcased their talent in the auditorium January 9 for Midwood’s Winter Concert.   

The band had practiced heavily in the weeks leading up to the performance. 

Mr. Daniel Jordan, a music instructor and symphonic band teacher, said, “Our practice routine usually involves Do Nows, group warm-ups, group practice, individual practice, and finally, playing altogether as a group.”

Teaching music is a good gig, Mr. Jordan said.

“I love teaching the class and showing music to my students,” he said. “I have the freedom to make my own curriculum.”

Practice can be more work than it sounds.

“I sit for about half an hour, 10 minutes off and 10 on, because taking breaks is important,” said band member Ella Redmond ’19. “Wind, brass, percussion ensemble have practiced together however kids go to the backroom to practice individually.”

This year Mr. Jordan provided his students with a challenge: a new level 6 piece from the NYSSMA (New York State Music Association) manual. Each ensemble also performs different pieces with different styles.

“This class has fought through thick and thin,” said Zan Babar ’20, a percussion ensembles member and composer. “Just be committed to a craft, and come to the realization that there are always people to help you out.”

“Nothing is immediate,” said Mr. Jordan. “Everything takes work.”

From instruments falling apart to others not working, the band still managed to pull through with a crowd-pleasing performance.

“This is one concert that I will never forget,” Mr. Jordan said.