DHS JB at IMEA All-State Convention in Peoria

Last week, the Jazz Band went to the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State Convention in Peoria to perform "Cholic Clown," Aaron Zemach's award-winning piece in the jazz instrumental category of the Secondary General Music Composition Contest. Eight musicians traveled south for the gig, which began with a full, professional sound check on the Peoria Civic Center auditorium stage. After lunch at Bennigan's (and after I went back to the restaurant where I left my bag with all of the music and the drum brushes), we went to the showcase concert.

The show began with a keynote by motivational speaker Tim Lautzenheiser. He was followed by an interview with Michael Salvatori, co-composer of the music for the very popular Halo video game series. As soon as he was done talking about his music and sharing examples of his work, we went backstage to our dressing room to get our instruments. Unfortunately, the room was locked, and we had several anxious minutes waiting for security to let us back in. With seconds to spare, we were warmed up, tuned, and waiting for our cue. Then the band went on stage and played Aaron's piece for about 2000 students and teachers. Afterwards, Aaron was invited to share some of his background and thoughts about his work with the panel, which included Brayer Teague, IMEA Vice-President for Secondary General Music, Tim Lautzenheiser, and Michael Salvatori. Aaron and the band were very well received, and it was an excellent way to spend a long Thursday away from Deerfield.