Final Impact - Band Contest {2015}

This morning, Evan and Stephen had their very first band contest.  The girls spent the morning with Grandma and Jason was at work.  As much as I missed them all, it was nice to have that time with Evan.  Uncle Billy and Aunt Kary were there to support Mr. Stephen.  Evan's demeanor for this contest was much different than from the Academic Team Tournament a couple of weeks ago.  He was calm, cool, and collected.  We got to the host school and the boys started warming up and practicing their pieces.

Evan practicing "Spring Time Waltz."

Uncle Billy was a proud dad.

Before we knew it, it was time to play their pieces for the judge.  All of the soloists lined the halls waiting for their turn to play.  Evan was the 11th in line.  Stephen was 13th.  One by one, the other students played and then it was Evan's turn.  I was excited, nervous, and proud all at the same time.  We walked into the room and had to wait for the judge to finish working on the score sheet for the previous contestant.  If Evan was nervous at all, I couldn't tell.  He played his piece and did an awesome job!!! The process was very quick. It was a little bit stuffy in the room, so we went outside when he was finished.  He did an impromptu practice with some friends of the band's contest pieces.

Slowly, the remainder of the soloists made their way outside and the rest of the beginning band arrived.  They all headed to a practice room, where all of the parents were kicked out.  Uncle Billy, Aunt Kary, and I all went to the auditorium to find the best seats.  It wasn't too long before the band shuffled in. If you are looking for Evan, he's in the 3rd row and sitting in first chair.  He's the guy whose mom didn't make sure he was wearing trouser socks. Opps!!!

They played awesome!  Here's their second piece called "Final Impact."  Keep in mind when you listen to this, that at this time last year, these kids had just signed up for band and didn't know how to play their instruments.  I'm so impressed!!!

 

The band received Superior ratings on both of their pieces!  We also found out that Evan and Stephen  received Superior ratings on their solos!   They will get medals at school on Monday.  I'm so proud of both of these boys!!!

In perfect timing, this gem was posted on Facebook this week.

That cute trumpeter in the white shirt is Jason back when he was in high school!!  I sure do love all of my brassy boys!