On Oct. 22, eighth grade band students from both Woodland and W.T. Clarke middle schools in East Meadow had the unique opportunity to learn from and perform alongside a group of professional musicians from around the country – the Dallas Brass.
The Dallas Brass is a chamber group made up of five brass players and a percussionist who are passionate about education outreach. Students participated in rehearsals, a clinic and breakout sessions with the ensemble members during the day, followed by the evening concert in the W.T. Clarke auditorium.
The evening concert was titled “American Musical Journey.” The program incorporated a musical travelogue through American history. From the time of President George Washington to the present day, a variety of musical genres were performed including Dixieland, Swing, Broadway, Folk, Patriotic, and Pop. Dallas Brass paraded through the aisles, interacted with audience members, and demonstrated phenomenal musicianship through their performance, inspiring East Meadow’s students and their families.
Each band had the opportunity to perform a piece with the Dallas Brass. W.T. Clarke Middle School’s eighth grade band performed “Buckaroo Barn Dance,” arranged by Chris Sharp and Michael Levine, under the direction of Ms. Michelle Cozzi. Woodland Middle School’s eighth grade band performed “Star Wars” by John Williams, arranged by Jack Gale, under the direction of Mr. John Marshall. At the conclusion of the concert, students and families received posters for autographs.
The district would like to thank Director of Music and Art Dr. Kelly Nixon, Woodland Music Chairperson Jessica Shenker, W.T. Clarke Music Chairperson Michelle Shmuel for organizing the event. This was a night filled with phenomenal music that students, families, and East Meadow community members will always remember.
