Jazz goes live for Northside’s Band Camp or Bust
by March 13, 2013 7:21 pm 190 views
Northside High School’s Jazz band played Tuesday night (Mar. 12) for donations at the Second Street Live! to raise money for band camp.
The performance included puns and explanations on why band camp is so important.
The average cost of summer band camp is $300 per student. Last year the performance raised $16,500 which sent 66 kids to band camp. Without this money many of them would not have been able to attend.
This year the goal is to raise $18,750 and send around 75 kids to camp.
“Band camp helped me to uncover and appreciate a deeper understanding of teamwork, friendship, and music,” said Ingrid, a tuba player.
Another member of the Northside Jazz band echoes that band camp gave her a little boost to make her do better at something she already loves.
Band camp provides challenging musical experiences and social activities that enable young performers to further their music education and have fun at the same time. Many times band camp provides experiences that a student couldn’t experience in school, whether it be because of new teachers or other kids from different places.
The performance began with “Lazy Bird,” “Watermelon Man,” “The Shadow of Your Smile,” and “Buffalo Wings.” After those songs the audience moved into another room for intermission where a variety of food was set out and a donation box could be seen.
During intermission the NHS Alumni Band played several songs. The Alumni band was made up of Don Martin on drums, Alfie Barter on bass, Jimmy Atchison on guitar, Rick Tinder on keyboard and John Henley on trumpet.
After intermission the student jazz band “Sack of Woe,” “Respect,” “Night Train,” “Frankenstein,” and “Birdland.” During the performance several students playing actors ran on stage to yell a pun or corny joke.
On Wednesday, Gordan Manley, director of Northside's concert band, said fundraising is about half way to the $18,750 goal. They will continue to collect donations for six weeks. Those wanting to donate can all the band room at 783-6611.