The FYC Big Band wasted no time with preparing for performance this Fall. The ensemble performed at the Levenger "Penfest" in early November. The performance was made possible by WTMI 93.1 fm, and provided the debut performance of the Big Band. Under the direction of Dennis Noday and Glenn Quader, the ensemble delivered a powerful performance which was well received.
The following week, the ensemble performed at the Annual NBPS Open House for the dedication of the school's beautiful new Montgomery Center, in honor of the school's founder, Dr. James Montgomery. The 40,000 plus square foot facility houses the base of operations of FYC, as well as three new rehearsal spaces for the Bands, Orchestras and Choirs. NBPS President Philip Morgaman led the event in the dedication of the building.
And for the third week in a row, the Big Band performed at the FAU Kid's Club event, held in conjunction with the WTMI Classical Kid's Club. The event aimed to introduce young children to the joys of music through fun music making activities and concert performances. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Classical Kid's Club, contact WTMI in Miami.
The FYC Philharmonia Orchestra, Glenn S. Quader, Director, presented a performance at the Broward Center for Performing Arts on December 6th, 1999. The ensemble, in conjunction with the Orchestra of Dillard High School, Jack Cunningham & Tim Byrns, Directors, and professional performers from the Symphony of the Americas, Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese Director, performed a work entitled "Visions for the New Millennium", composed by David Heckendorn.
Heckendorn received critical acclaim for his work on the score for the blockbuster movie hit "Mr. Holland's Opus", starring Richard Dreyfus. Mr. Heckendorn worked with the ensemble in an intensive three hour rehearsal prior to the performance at the FYC home base in Coconut Creek.
The performance was presented as a part of the SEAS student arts enrichment program, sponsored by the Broward County School Board. The work is a mulitmedia showcase which is performed with a beautiful slide show honoring the great Everglades photographer, Clyde Butcher.
The final movement of the work featured the dance department of Parkway Middle School for the Arts, Denise Brooks-Savetz, Director.
Mr. Heckendorn is being commissioned by the FYC to compose a work for saxophone quintet and percussion, to be premiered this Spring. Mr. Heckendorn will visit the school as a part of the FYC Visiting Composers in Residence program to work with the ensemble in preparation for the premiere.
Students of all instruments are urged to attend this special performance, as Mr. Heckendorn's composition style lends itself to be appreciated by all levels of musician. Stay tuned for more details!
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| The FYC Big Band performed at the City of Parkland's "Millennium Celebration" on Saturday, January 22nd. The ensemble opened up for the one and only "Blood, Sweat, and Tears" at this outdoor event held at Terramar Park. |