Directors:
Sun Prairie West High School
Matt McVeigh: msmcvei@sunprairieschools.org 608-834-6781 SPHS Band Links:Registration Information:Downloads:
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HIGH SCHOOL BAND NEWS
Wednesday Tent Rehearsals for May 12 will take place as planned. Weather calls for sun, low winds, and 50s.
Signs of Support for Sun Prairie Band Students
SPHS Band Members keep the music flowing through the pandemicSeveral recent grads and current members of the Sun Prairie High School Music program have kept the music going this summer.
It is great to see our young musicians continue to share their gift of music with our community. Thank you and stay safe!! Sun Prairie H.S. Pomp & Circumstance
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AND....some of our seniors sharing their send-off in their own special, creative, and partly dangerous way. We'll miss you all!
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SP Band Honors Veterans on Memorial Day
Each year since the early 1970's members of the Sun Prairie Band program have honored veterans by participating in some way with the City of Sun Prairie's Memorial Day remembrances. Recently, this has meant marching bands in the parade and seniors performing at the Memorial service at the VFW. This year with the Covid-19 impacting public gatherings, members of the band participated in a national "Taps across America" performance of "Taps" at 3pm from their homes or wherever possible.
Michael Hackett and his son Eric's performance was featured on "News 3". Heidi Hellenbrand and her mother collaborated on a performance as well. Mr. Rush and Mr. Sveum also participated from their home and at the Colonial Club respectively, while other members participated anonymously. All performances were well received and appreciated.
Thank you Veterans and thank you all who serve.
Michael Hackett and his son Eric's performance was featured on "News 3". Heidi Hellenbrand and her mother collaborated on a performance as well. Mr. Rush and Mr. Sveum also participated from their home and at the Colonial Club respectively, while other members participated anonymously. All performances were well received and appreciated.
Thank you Veterans and thank you all who serve.
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Footloose Pit Orchestra earns a "Jerry Award"
Congratulations to members of the "Footloose" pit orchestra - Winners of the "Outstanding Orchestra" award from the Jerry Awards that honor notable performances in High School Musical Theater. Student members included: Bella Wineke, Paige Barber, Oliver Gomez, Kallan Engleson, Sydney Kostelac, Pierre Tan, Camryn Rought and Michael Wu. Some good news in our time away from each other!
Congratulations to SPHS students accepted into 2020 Wisconsin State Honors Project
This year, more than 1,400 students auditioned for 428 positions in five ensembles. Every student that auditioned should be proud of their accomplishments as preparation for the audition is an honor in itself.
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to participate in the 2020 High School State Honors Music Project!
Matthew Anderson, Euphonium - Honors Band
Josh Caron, Tuba - Honors Band
Sydney Kostelac - Flute - Honors Orchestra
Lauretta Loesch - Tuba- Honors Band
Danica Fe Rebudiao - Bass - Honors Orchestra
Best of Luck and well deserved!!!
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to participate in the 2020 High School State Honors Music Project!
Matthew Anderson, Euphonium - Honors Band
Josh Caron, Tuba - Honors Band
Sydney Kostelac - Flute - Honors Orchestra
Lauretta Loesch - Tuba- Honors Band
Danica Fe Rebudiao - Bass - Honors Orchestra
Best of Luck and well deserved!!!
Michael Wu takes top honors at Madison Symphony's "Finale Forte" Concerto Competition
On Wednesday, February 25, 2020 SPHS senior Michael Wu earned first place at the Madison Symphony Orchestra's "Final Forte" competition. Michael performed Liszt's "Totentanz" with the Madison Symphony before a large audience at the Overture Center in Madison and a live statewide audience on Wisconsin Public Television. His passionate performance brought tears to many in the audience and seemed to be appreciated by members of the orchestra as well. There will be several re-broadcasts of the "Final Forte" coming up on Wisconsin Public Television. His first place finish is accompanied with a beautiful trophy and a $2000 scholarship.
Wind Ensemble Gets up Early to Make Wonderful Musical Connections
Legendary East Coast band director, Stephen Massey, was in residence last week at SPHS. He woke up early, as did the Wind Ensemble, to make some beautiful music with our High School musicians. Warm up started at 6:30am last thursday and Mr. Massey worked the band for an hour introducing unique rehearsal techniques and opening our ears to each others wonderful sounds. He made it a point that we hear each other and fall in love with each others' sounds - and then tell someone about it!
Mr. Massy also visited several music classrooms at Sun Prairie High School and Cardinal Heights. The next day, he also provided an 8 hour workshop for district music teachers.
Mr. Massy also visited several music classrooms at Sun Prairie High School and Cardinal Heights. The next day, he also provided an 8 hour workshop for district music teachers.
Congratulations Senior Michael Wu - Finalist in Madison Symphony Orchestra Final Forte Concerto Competition
Please congratulate Michael Wu on being chosen as a finalist in the "Final Forte" competition sponsored by the Madison Symphony Orchestra and Wisconsin Public Television. Michael will perform with the MSO on Wednesday, February 26 with the program beginning at 6:45pm in Overture Hall in Madison. Tickets are FREE! We hope you can come on down and cheer him on!
Congratulations to all who participated in the District Solo/Ensemble Festival!
Congrats to all who participated in District Solo/Ensemble this past Saturday, February 8th at Prairie View Middle School. The Sun Prairie High School Band students participated in 73 events with 32 of them earning the opportunity to play at the State Solo/Ensemble Festival with a 1* rating on their class A solo. Special recognition goes to our 6 performers who earned a “Notable Performance” award for an especially memorable performance.
Sydney Kostelac, Flute; Brunella Lozano, Alto Saxophone; Katie Petsch, Trumpet; Matthew Anderson, Euphonium; Lauretta Loesch, Tuba; and our Brass Quintet
It was a day of great performances and a good sense of community. Thank you to all our volunteers and everyone who made it a great day!
Sydney Kostelac, Flute; Brunella Lozano, Alto Saxophone; Katie Petsch, Trumpet; Matthew Anderson, Euphonium; Lauretta Loesch, Tuba; and our Brass Quintet
It was a day of great performances and a good sense of community. Thank you to all our volunteers and everyone who made it a great day!
Hikarigaoka All Girls High School Students from Okazaki, Japan make a lasting impression
The Hikarigaoka All Girls High School Wind Orchestra from Okazaki, Japan visited SPHS December 17-19, 2019 in preparation for their performance at the Midwest Clinic - an International Band and Orchestra convention held at the McCormick Convention Center in Chicago. They were hosted by families in the Sun Prairie Band Program during their stay.
After a weekend of playing 4, three hour shows in Japan, the girls from Okazaki had 2 hours to pack and then headed to the airport for the 15 hour flight to Chicago and 3 hour drive to a hotel in Madison. They finally got to their rooms at about 1am and awoke the next morning to pack up and begin rehearsal in the SPHS band room by 2pm. At 6pm, the students met in the PAC to meet their host families. To be honest, there was much trepidation on both sides - language barrier, would the Japanese students like the American food, would everyone get along, etc… As each family left with their groups of 2-4 Japanese students there were many anxious smiles.
The next morning, some of the Japanese students arrived at 6:30am to observe the SPHS jazz I rehearsal while most arrived around 7:30am. They were welcomed by Principal Nerby in the PAC and then were split up into groups to tour Sun Prairie High School. Highlights of the tour seemed to be the athletic facilities and the dark room in the photography class. At the conclusion of the tour, Jazz I played a three tune set for the entire Hikarigaoka band that was well received.
After two more hours of rehearsal, the Japanese students enjoyed lunch at SPHS. The mashed potato, chicken nugget and corn bowl and fresh grapes seemed to be a hit with our visitors! The visiting students were very appreciative of this “insider” view of an American High School.
That evening featured a concert featuring the Cardinal Heights Wind Symphony, SPHS Wind Ensemble and the Hikarigaoka All Girls High School Wind Orchestra. The near capacity audience really enjoyed the concert. Many were amazed at the wonderful sound, clean technique of our visitors. The second part of the Japanese performance was more like a concert that they would present in Japan and started with the Earth Wind and Fire tune, “September”, complete with clapping and choreography. Mr. Hino, the Hikarigaoka director, mentioned that although he had done several exchanges with foreign bands in the past, this was the largest and most enthusiastic audience they had ever played for.
At the conclusion of the concert, the Japanese students returned to their Sun Prairie families for one final night. The next morning, everyone arrived around 7:30am and the Japanese group rehearsed until about 9am. At that time, it was time to say goodbye. It was very gratifying to see how close these students became to each other in just a couple days time. Music was in fact a universal language that helped break the language barrier and brought students from very different cultures to have a better understanding of each other. In the process many new friendships were formed and memories that will last a lifetime.
To see more pictures click the link below:
Hikarigaoka All Girls Visit
After a weekend of playing 4, three hour shows in Japan, the girls from Okazaki had 2 hours to pack and then headed to the airport for the 15 hour flight to Chicago and 3 hour drive to a hotel in Madison. They finally got to their rooms at about 1am and awoke the next morning to pack up and begin rehearsal in the SPHS band room by 2pm. At 6pm, the students met in the PAC to meet their host families. To be honest, there was much trepidation on both sides - language barrier, would the Japanese students like the American food, would everyone get along, etc… As each family left with their groups of 2-4 Japanese students there were many anxious smiles.
The next morning, some of the Japanese students arrived at 6:30am to observe the SPHS jazz I rehearsal while most arrived around 7:30am. They were welcomed by Principal Nerby in the PAC and then were split up into groups to tour Sun Prairie High School. Highlights of the tour seemed to be the athletic facilities and the dark room in the photography class. At the conclusion of the tour, Jazz I played a three tune set for the entire Hikarigaoka band that was well received.
After two more hours of rehearsal, the Japanese students enjoyed lunch at SPHS. The mashed potato, chicken nugget and corn bowl and fresh grapes seemed to be a hit with our visitors! The visiting students were very appreciative of this “insider” view of an American High School.
That evening featured a concert featuring the Cardinal Heights Wind Symphony, SPHS Wind Ensemble and the Hikarigaoka All Girls High School Wind Orchestra. The near capacity audience really enjoyed the concert. Many were amazed at the wonderful sound, clean technique of our visitors. The second part of the Japanese performance was more like a concert that they would present in Japan and started with the Earth Wind and Fire tune, “September”, complete with clapping and choreography. Mr. Hino, the Hikarigaoka director, mentioned that although he had done several exchanges with foreign bands in the past, this was the largest and most enthusiastic audience they had ever played for.
At the conclusion of the concert, the Japanese students returned to their Sun Prairie families for one final night. The next morning, everyone arrived around 7:30am and the Japanese group rehearsed until about 9am. At that time, it was time to say goodbye. It was very gratifying to see how close these students became to each other in just a couple days time. Music was in fact a universal language that helped break the language barrier and brought students from very different cultures to have a better understanding of each other. In the process many new friendships were formed and memories that will last a lifetime.
To see more pictures click the link below:
Hikarigaoka All Girls Visit
Annual Big Band Dance - Fun for All!
Congratulations to all students who performed at the Annual "Holiday Big Band Dance" on Saturday, December 7 at the Angell Park Pavilion. The bands played to an enthusiastic crowd of dancers, listeners and paparazzi. The students have much to be proud of as their early morning pilgrimages to the CHUM and HS band rooms really paid off in a night of good music and fun. Our alumni also had a great time performing in the Alumni Big Band and sad to say we ran out of time for their alumni jazz combo to perform. Thank you to all who volunteered as well and especially our Jazz Chairperson, Mike Engleson. Happy Holidays!
Old and New visit SPHS Band Room
Our old friend Scott Teeple brought fellow faculty UW-Madison faculty members Darin Olson (Assistant Director of Bands) Corey Pompey( Associate Director of Bands and new UW Marching Band Director), and Oriole Sans (Director of Orchestral activities) to work with the SPHS Wind Ensemble this past Monday. Each gentleman brought a unique vision to our music. Professor Pompey asked us to play with the same intent and gusto that we sang with. Professor Teeple reminded us of "John Bowlin's deeds" as they related to Horkstow Grange. With that in mind, we need to play rougher in spots, gentler in spots, and more horizontal in general. Our low sounds made great strides forward in phrasing and musical direction.
A big "Thank You" to each UW-Faculty member for sharing their time and talents with us!
A big "Thank You" to each UW-Faculty member for sharing their time and talents with us!
SPHS Band Students close "Footloose" and work with Ron Carter
Members of the band program completed their run of "Footloose" as members of the pit orchestra. They celebrated with a brunch in the band room prior to their final 1:45 call on Sunday. All performances were very well attended and the band did a great job.
Many of the same students also attended a jazz clinic by longtime Sun Prairie friend and mentor, Ron Carter. The jazz ensemble made great progress under the guidance of Professor Carter.
Many of the same students also attended a jazz clinic by longtime Sun Prairie friend and mentor, Ron Carter. The jazz ensemble made great progress under the guidance of Professor Carter.
SPHS Jazz Ensemble Opens for Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
On November 13, 2019 the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I played a brief opening set just prior to the feature performance of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at Overture Hall in Madison. The Sun Prairie Band arrived at the Overture Center in time to listen to the J@LCO sound check which concluded with a brisk performance of "Braggin In Brass" with an extended solo by Wynton Marsalis. Immediately following our students took the stage for their sound check and were joined by J@LCO trumpeter, Kenny Rampton. After the sound check, the band stored their instruments in their dressing rooms downstairs at the Overture Center and walked over to Ian's Pizza for dinner. While there, members of the Beloit HS Jazz Ensemble arrived as well and wished our musicians the best.
After dinner, the band listened to Daren Steruds' Jazz Ensemble in the lobby of the Overture Center and then headed downstairs to warm up. The band met Kenny Rampton backstage and headed to the mainstage at 7:30. They were introduced by Mr. Rampton and opened their two tune set with Ellington's "Black and Tan Fantasy". They were then joined by Mr. Rampton on "Portrait of Louis Armstrong" from Duke's New Orleans suite. The nearly sold out audience gave a very warm reception to the bands' performance. The Lincoln Center band then played two wonderful sets showcasing the many talents of the band and especially Wynton Marsalis.
At the conclusion of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Performance, members of both bands interacted downstairs and exchanged hugs and compliments. The evening concluded with Wynton talking to students from both Sun Prairie and Beloit about the importance of music and community, especially in these tense times. Wynton began his remarks by complimenting many individual performances of the Sun Prairie students from earlier in the evening.
A very memorable and special evening for our students.
After dinner, the band listened to Daren Steruds' Jazz Ensemble in the lobby of the Overture Center and then headed downstairs to warm up. The band met Kenny Rampton backstage and headed to the mainstage at 7:30. They were introduced by Mr. Rampton and opened their two tune set with Ellington's "Black and Tan Fantasy". They were then joined by Mr. Rampton on "Portrait of Louis Armstrong" from Duke's New Orleans suite. The nearly sold out audience gave a very warm reception to the bands' performance. The Lincoln Center band then played two wonderful sets showcasing the many talents of the band and especially Wynton Marsalis.
At the conclusion of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Performance, members of both bands interacted downstairs and exchanged hugs and compliments. The evening concluded with Wynton talking to students from both Sun Prairie and Beloit about the importance of music and community, especially in these tense times. Wynton began his remarks by complimenting many individual performances of the Sun Prairie students from earlier in the evening.
A very memorable and special evening for our students.
November in SPHS Band - Guests Galore!
The first full week of November has been a busy one. In addition to the opening of the High School Musical, "Footloose", we had a clinic for the Wind Ensemble with legendary Wind Band conductor, Craig Kirchoff and UW-Stevens Point Wind Ensemble conductor Michael Butler. In addition students received masterclasses by members of the UW-Stevens Point faculty. It was wonderful to have a good deal of time with such outstanding educators working on the music of Percy Grainger. It was a great day of learning and listening.
Jazz at Lincoln Center trumpet player, Kenny Rampton also spent several hours in the SPHS band room helping Jazz I students prepare for their performance at the Overture Center next week opening for Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Kenny mentioned that we need to play with Intent, Integrity and Intensity - every note has to mean something.
Good work SPHS band members, let's apply what we've learned! Onward and Upward!!!
Jazz at Lincoln Center trumpet player, Kenny Rampton also spent several hours in the SPHS band room helping Jazz I students prepare for their performance at the Overture Center next week opening for Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Kenny mentioned that we need to play with Intent, Integrity and Intensity - every note has to mean something.
Good work SPHS band members, let's apply what we've learned! Onward and Upward!!!
SPHS Welcomes Maxine Gordon
On Wednesday, October 30th we were honored to welcome Maxine Gordon as part of her current international book tour. Maxine is an oral historian and archivist in the fields of jazz and African American cultural history. She was married to the late great jazz tenor saxophonist, Dexter Gordon, Maxine was on the road with many jazz greats including Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and was good friends with jazz organist, Shirley Scott. Maxine was able to give us personal insight into the life of an African American jazz musician and was curious as to our students experience at the "Essentially Ellington" finals in New York. She did a lot of fundraising for Jazz at Lincoln Center in their efforts to build their new facility on Columbus Circle. She said that "Jazz" sign on Broadway that is over the entrance to the time Warner Building is hugely important to the music. She also talked about the difficulties of women in predominantly male professions and the demands of writing a book and going on tour. Maxine also had some insights on the music industry vs. music and musicians. A notable example was that of the artist "Prince" who changed his name to a symbol to maintain the rights and royalties to his music. She was engaging and informative and a pleasure to have in our midst. She also spoke to Mr. Ladell's music and society class.
Music Convention Week does not disappoint!
Congratulations to our State Honors Ensemble members: Sydney Kostelac, Flute/Honors Band; Matthew Anderson, Euphonium, Honors Band; and Oliver Gomez, Bass, Honors Jazz Ensemble. Wonderful concerts and a wonderful experience well deserved!
Back at home we hosted Gary Stith, professor of music from both Ithaca and Houghton college in New York State. Mr. Stith was in town to present at the music convention about innovative and effective teaching methods for band. (Side note, both Mr. Sveum and Mr. Gleason wrote articles for his publication entitled, "The Conductor's Companion: 100 Rehearsal Techniques, Imaginative Ideas, Quotes and Facts", Meredith Publications) Mr. Stith observed our warm up and then led the Wind Ensemble in a rehearsal of Percy Graingers' music. Mr. Stith actually studied with Frederick Fennell, noted conductor of the Eastman Wind Ensemble and recognized scholar of the music of Percy Grianger. Mr. Stith focused on the first two movements of "Lincolnshire Posy" with our Wind Ensemble. He noted Graingers' use of "Poly-Dynamics" - a technique where different parts of the band crescendo and decrescendo at different times thus creating an ever changing color palette of sound. He also worked Grainger's "Shepherd's Hey" noting that we really needed to add the piano, "full stick" to fully realize the colors that Shepherd's Hey afforded.
We also welcomed UW-Whitewater saxophone professor, Dr. Matthew Sintchak and Melissa Reiser to the band room to demonstrate chamber music and sectional rehearsal techniques. Our guests both earned their advanced degrees in classical saxophone performance from the Eastman School of Music. While the trio rehearsed we projected a score of the music being played on the screen. Students made observations about what they heard us working on and noticed how the group had a musical 'conversation' even while sight reading. It was clear that the trio was working very collaboratively and enjoying the opportunity to make music together.
Back at home we hosted Gary Stith, professor of music from both Ithaca and Houghton college in New York State. Mr. Stith was in town to present at the music convention about innovative and effective teaching methods for band. (Side note, both Mr. Sveum and Mr. Gleason wrote articles for his publication entitled, "The Conductor's Companion: 100 Rehearsal Techniques, Imaginative Ideas, Quotes and Facts", Meredith Publications) Mr. Stith observed our warm up and then led the Wind Ensemble in a rehearsal of Percy Graingers' music. Mr. Stith actually studied with Frederick Fennell, noted conductor of the Eastman Wind Ensemble and recognized scholar of the music of Percy Grianger. Mr. Stith focused on the first two movements of "Lincolnshire Posy" with our Wind Ensemble. He noted Graingers' use of "Poly-Dynamics" - a technique where different parts of the band crescendo and decrescendo at different times thus creating an ever changing color palette of sound. He also worked Grainger's "Shepherd's Hey" noting that we really needed to add the piano, "full stick" to fully realize the colors that Shepherd's Hey afforded.
We also welcomed UW-Whitewater saxophone professor, Dr. Matthew Sintchak and Melissa Reiser to the band room to demonstrate chamber music and sectional rehearsal techniques. Our guests both earned their advanced degrees in classical saxophone performance from the Eastman School of Music. While the trio rehearsed we projected a score of the music being played on the screen. Students made observations about what they heard us working on and noticed how the group had a musical 'conversation' even while sight reading. It was clear that the trio was working very collaboratively and enjoying the opportunity to make music together.
Reggie Thomas and Rick Haydon work with Jazz 1
On Monday October 14, Reggie Thomas and Rick Haydon helped Jazz I get a little deeper into their music. The night began with our regular warm up that led to a mini-jam session with both guests on "Blues in the Closet" complete with student solos, riffed background and solos by our guest artists - beginning the evening with spontaneous conversations in music - doesn't quite get better than that!
Then professor Haydon took out guitarist to the "woodshed" and worked with them for an hour and a half while professor Thomas worked on getting the band to play with more intent and purpose. He was able to bring quite a bit out of the band and helped make the music more conversational. They both look forward to returning in February for our jazz festival to hear how we have grown!
Then professor Haydon took out guitarist to the "woodshed" and worked with them for an hour and a half while professor Thomas worked on getting the band to play with more intent and purpose. He was able to bring quite a bit out of the band and helped make the music more conversational. They both look forward to returning in February for our jazz festival to hear how we have grown!
Busy Start to the 2019 - 2020 School Year!
Welcome to the 2019-20 school year! It has been a busy one. For many, it was a summer of camps, honors rehearsals, Sound of Sun Prairie and a host of other musical activities as well as spending time with family and friends.
Prior to the start of school we had jazz students volunteer for the "Ironman" and a good kick off night for the Wind Ensemble. As school began, we immediately hosted the "Edgar Knecht Trio" from our sister county in Kessel, Germany. They were a German folk song based improvisatory musical group that brought insights on using folk music as source material - that tied in well with our focus on the music of Percy Grainger this year in the Wind Ensemble.
We have a very exciting year in store filled with many guest artists, a commission, a visiting band from Japan in December and a wonderful opportunity to work with composer Frank Ticheli at the Symphony Center in Chicago (Home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra).
Please know that you are always welcome to visit the band room for any of our guests, just please let us know in advance that you will be coming in so that when you check in at the front office, they know that you have an appointment -without an appointment, you can't get in. The invitation also stands for any of our daily rehearsals. Your sons and daughters are doing great work and I believe you would enjoy seeing them in a different light - the process is a lot of fun!
Prior to the start of school we had jazz students volunteer for the "Ironman" and a good kick off night for the Wind Ensemble. As school began, we immediately hosted the "Edgar Knecht Trio" from our sister county in Kessel, Germany. They were a German folk song based improvisatory musical group that brought insights on using folk music as source material - that tied in well with our focus on the music of Percy Grainger this year in the Wind Ensemble.
We have a very exciting year in store filled with many guest artists, a commission, a visiting band from Japan in December and a wonderful opportunity to work with composer Frank Ticheli at the Symphony Center in Chicago (Home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra).
Please know that you are always welcome to visit the band room for any of our guests, just please let us know in advance that you will be coming in so that when you check in at the front office, they know that you have an appointment -without an appointment, you can't get in. The invitation also stands for any of our daily rehearsals. Your sons and daughters are doing great work and I believe you would enjoy seeing them in a different light - the process is a lot of fun!
Congratulations Class of 2019!
In the final performance of the 2018-19 school year, select member of the SPHS band program played for graduation at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Madison on Friday, June 14, 2019. Our largest senior class to date - over 625 seniors - entered the Coliseum to the strains of the traditional processional known commonly as "Pomp & Circumstance". This followed an approximately 25 minute prelude concert performed by the band for the approximately 4000 parents, family and friends in attendance. The ceremony began with a shoutout from the podium by recent band grad, Erin Milleville. We would like to especially thank all of our band seniors for all of the great moments we all shared and wish you all the best. Please stay in touch! Have a great summer
Students perform at year end Banquet
We celebrated another good year of music making in the SPHS band department with our annual banquet prior to our final concert of the year. We took time to break bread together and honor our seniors and students who have gone above and beyond in various honors ensembles, excelled at state solo/ensemble as well as recieved various pins, letters and certificates. We also recognized the various Powers foundation scholarship recipients. New to this years' banquet was the addition of student performances to the event. We had a piano solo, jazz combo, saxophone quartet, marimba solo, piccolo and flute duets as well as a tuba/euphonium duet. It was a great addition to a nice year end event. Congratulations as well to this years' John Phillip Sousa award winner, Erin Milleville and job well done to all SPHS band students - we appreciate your work!
SPHS Jazz 1 back to "Essentially Ellington" 2019
Congratulations to the 2018-19 SPHS Jazz Ensemble I as they competed as a National Finalist in the 24th annual “Essentially Ellington” jazz competition and festival in New York City. The band left early in the morning on May 8th from Milwaukee and arrived at the newly renovated Southwest terminal at LaGuardia airport. They then drove past the Steinway factory where our own Steinway piano came from on their way to Louis Armstrongs’ house in Queens. It was a great tour and very informative on the life and music of the great jazz master. We also had a glimpse of the new Queens College visitor center that is being built across the street from the Armstrong’s house.
It was time for lunch and what better place to eat than the historic Katz Deli on Houston. We had a sampler plate that was fantastic! After lunch it was off to the World One trade center observatory. The weather was clear and we got a great overview of Manhattan. We then proceeded to the Park Central hotel and got a little rest. The day concluded with a walk through Times Square and a big dinner at Carmines.
The next day we took a walk through central park and rode the carousel. After lunch we headed over to Columbus Circle and the cheer tunnel and welcome activities at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The day included a Q & A with Wynton Marsalis, sectionals, a rehearsal in Dizzy’s Coca Cola Jazz Club, dinner and a Jam session.
The third day included a rehearsal at a rehearsal studio used by many broadway shows and travelling music acts. As it turns out, Pat Matheny had taken our studio over so we had to go to plan B in studio 3. It all worked out great. We had lunch in the Atrium and performed around 5pm - the band did a fine job and had fun playing for such an enthusiastic audience. Later that night we enjoyed dinner and a show at Birdland.
The final day of the festival featured seven bands. We had dinner at Angelo’s Pizza on Broadway and then returned to J@LC to hear the top palcing bands and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra - what a great concert. The night concluded with an awards program. Sun Prairie was awarded: Outstanding Soloist: Kallan Engleson, piano; Outstanding Section: Trombones; Honorable Mention: Megan Rault, Alto Saxophone and Tyler Stoll, Trombone.
The last day in NYC was rainy. We slept in and checked out later in the am. We rode the subway to Grand Central station and enjoyed lunch in Harlem at the famous soul food restaurant, Sylvia’s in Harlem. After a long day, we made it back to LaGuardia where we met up with the other two finalist bands from Wisconsin who all took the last Southwest flight back home to Milwaukee.
Overall, another year of great growth capped off by an unbelievable experience in New York - who would ever believe that students from Sun Prairie, Wisconsin would perform in the heart of New York City and be welcomed by so many outstanding jazz musicians, including 9 time Grammy and pulitzer prize winning jazz trumpeter, Wynton Marsalis. Good work all!
It was time for lunch and what better place to eat than the historic Katz Deli on Houston. We had a sampler plate that was fantastic! After lunch it was off to the World One trade center observatory. The weather was clear and we got a great overview of Manhattan. We then proceeded to the Park Central hotel and got a little rest. The day concluded with a walk through Times Square and a big dinner at Carmines.
The next day we took a walk through central park and rode the carousel. After lunch we headed over to Columbus Circle and the cheer tunnel and welcome activities at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The day included a Q & A with Wynton Marsalis, sectionals, a rehearsal in Dizzy’s Coca Cola Jazz Club, dinner and a Jam session.
The third day included a rehearsal at a rehearsal studio used by many broadway shows and travelling music acts. As it turns out, Pat Matheny had taken our studio over so we had to go to plan B in studio 3. It all worked out great. We had lunch in the Atrium and performed around 5pm - the band did a fine job and had fun playing for such an enthusiastic audience. Later that night we enjoyed dinner and a show at Birdland.
The final day of the festival featured seven bands. We had dinner at Angelo’s Pizza on Broadway and then returned to J@LC to hear the top palcing bands and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra - what a great concert. The night concluded with an awards program. Sun Prairie was awarded: Outstanding Soloist: Kallan Engleson, piano; Outstanding Section: Trombones; Honorable Mention: Megan Rault, Alto Saxophone and Tyler Stoll, Trombone.
The last day in NYC was rainy. We slept in and checked out later in the am. We rode the subway to Grand Central station and enjoyed lunch in Harlem at the famous soul food restaurant, Sylvia’s in Harlem. After a long day, we made it back to LaGuardia where we met up with the other two finalist bands from Wisconsin who all took the last Southwest flight back home to Milwaukee.
Overall, another year of great growth capped off by an unbelievable experience in New York - who would ever believe that students from Sun Prairie, Wisconsin would perform in the heart of New York City and be welcomed by so many outstanding jazz musicians, including 9 time Grammy and pulitzer prize winning jazz trumpeter, Wynton Marsalis. Good work all!
SPHS Band says "Thank You for Your Service on Memorial Day"
Even steady rain did not stop the SPHS Band Seniors from performing in honor of our Veterans at the the Sun Prairie Community Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Sun Prairie VFW on South Walker Way. The students were great about "going with the flow" and efficiently moving equipment from the outdoor, Veterans Memorial site to a covered location just outside of the VFW building. In addition to the regular ceremony, guest speaker, John Stofflet of NBC-15 TV gave remarks honoring all veterans and his father who was killed in the Vietnam conflict when Stofflet was only 8 years old. The band performed 3 pieces for the Memorial Day audience (and a good amount of band parents!). At the conclusion of the performance a teary eyed, Gold Star Mother of a fallen son simply hugged Mr. Sveum and simply said, "Thank You". The importance of the gift of music. Thank you students for sharing your talents on an important day of remembrance.
Band O Rama continues with more students than ever!
Early April once again featured a tradition in Sun Prairie that has been a part of the SPASD Band Department since at least 1972...Band O Rama. This year, nearly 800 band students from 13 bands performed two joint selections and a short feature piece to thrill the audience of approx.1600 friends and relatives. We also learned a little bit about the western prairie states and specifically South Dakota! Also impressive was that all was said and done in just over an hour!
Pit Orchestra & Cast from "Miss Saigon" bring Broadway to SPHS!
Connor Pietrzak, a trumpet player who attended Xavier High School in Appleton first became acquainted with the Sun Prairie High School music department as a high school jazz musician who participated in the annual Sun Prairie Jazz Festival. Even at that time he felt that good things were going on here in the SPHS music department. After years of hard work and practice at UW-Eau Claire Connor is now the only Trumpet player in the Broadway touring show of "Miss Saigon".
Connor contacted Mr. Sveum after a successful outreach event by members of the Miss Saigon company and a local school in Cleveland. Connor remembered that we had a strong music department and thought an outreach while the production was playing at the Overture Center in Madison may meet with similar success.
On Friday April 5th, nearly the entire pit orchestra an several members of the cast visited SPHS to work with the Wind Ensemble, Orchestras and Drama Class. The day began with Master Classes and continued with the Miss Saigon folks performing two numbers for the combines student members. The session then evolved into the Pit Orchestra conductor teaching a number from the production to our students then performed a "side by side" with the "Saigon" company. This session ended with another performance and a Question and Answer session. Later that afternoon, one of the dancer/actors from the production met with a drama class to tell her story and answer questions.
It was a very insightful day, that brought the life of "20-something" professional musicians, actors and vocalists to our doorstep to share their stories and music. Another uniques and wonderful day in the SPHS Band Room. Mr. Sveum was able to cap off his experience by sitting in (observing -not playing!) with the pit orchestra at the Overture Center for the final performance of the show in Madison
Connor contacted Mr. Sveum after a successful outreach event by members of the Miss Saigon company and a local school in Cleveland. Connor remembered that we had a strong music department and thought an outreach while the production was playing at the Overture Center in Madison may meet with similar success.
On Friday April 5th, nearly the entire pit orchestra an several members of the cast visited SPHS to work with the Wind Ensemble, Orchestras and Drama Class. The day began with Master Classes and continued with the Miss Saigon folks performing two numbers for the combines student members. The session then evolved into the Pit Orchestra conductor teaching a number from the production to our students then performed a "side by side" with the "Saigon" company. This session ended with another performance and a Question and Answer session. Later that afternoon, one of the dancer/actors from the production met with a drama class to tell her story and answer questions.
It was a very insightful day, that brought the life of "20-something" professional musicians, actors and vocalists to our doorstep to share their stories and music. Another uniques and wonderful day in the SPHS Band Room. Mr. Sveum was able to cap off his experience by sitting in (observing -not playing!) with the pit orchestra at the Overture Center for the final performance of the show in Madison
Ending February with a Guest Galore!
The last week of February has been busy for member of the Sun Prairie HS Band program.
Monday evening began with three guests assisting Jazz I. Michael Hackett began by having the trumpet section work on their air by blowing their trumpets into a tub of water which yielded amazing results in the trumpet sounds! This was followed by a visit by UW-Music Professor and bass player, John Schaffer. He had some great points for the rhythm section. The rest of the evening UW Madison jazz percussionist, Matt Endres worked with both the band and the rhythm section on adding more colors to our arsenal.
On Wednesday, we had three more guests join us. Tim Hagen, flute professor from UW-Madison and Halie Brown, principal trumpet player in two symphonies in Louisiana joined us as well as Mr. Gleason to work on "Rhapsody in Blue" All three guests had great effect on the bands conception of what they were playing. Just being able to think differently about the music really helped the Wind Ensemble make a step forward.
On Friday, the Wind Ensemble was joined by Madison Symphony Orchestra principal hornist, Linda Kimball. Linda brought new insights and excitement to the Rhapsody - a piece she has performed several times with both the MSO and the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra.
We would also like to thank Clarinetist Nancy Mackenzie for spending time with the Wind Ensemble clarinets last week. She brought a wealth of knowledge about playing and preparation to the clarinet section and the band. She was also very helpful with reeds suggesting that each single reed player had at least 8 reeds ready to go in a reed guard.
A great couple weeks of interacting with Musicians from the Madison area and beyond!
Monday evening began with three guests assisting Jazz I. Michael Hackett began by having the trumpet section work on their air by blowing their trumpets into a tub of water which yielded amazing results in the trumpet sounds! This was followed by a visit by UW-Music Professor and bass player, John Schaffer. He had some great points for the rhythm section. The rest of the evening UW Madison jazz percussionist, Matt Endres worked with both the band and the rhythm section on adding more colors to our arsenal.
On Wednesday, we had three more guests join us. Tim Hagen, flute professor from UW-Madison and Halie Brown, principal trumpet player in two symphonies in Louisiana joined us as well as Mr. Gleason to work on "Rhapsody in Blue" All three guests had great effect on the bands conception of what they were playing. Just being able to think differently about the music really helped the Wind Ensemble make a step forward.
On Friday, the Wind Ensemble was joined by Madison Symphony Orchestra principal hornist, Linda Kimball. Linda brought new insights and excitement to the Rhapsody - a piece she has performed several times with both the MSO and the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra.
We would also like to thank Clarinetist Nancy Mackenzie for spending time with the Wind Ensemble clarinets last week. She brought a wealth of knowledge about playing and preparation to the clarinet section and the band. She was also very helpful with reeds suggesting that each single reed player had at least 8 reeds ready to go in a reed guard.
A great couple weeks of interacting with Musicians from the Madison area and beyond!
Start spreading the news....Jazz 1 goes back to NYC for Essentially Ellington!
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SUN PRAIRIE, Wis. - Three southern Wisconsin high schools are among 15 chosen to attend a national jazz competition and festival in New York this spring.
Beloit Memorial, Middleton and Sun Prairie high schools' jazz bands will head to the 24th annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition and Festival at the Lincoln Center. |
"That is pretty crazy,” Sun Prairie band director Steve Sveum said. “Three from the 608 area code. I don’t think that’s happened before."
At Sun Prairie's annual Essentially Ellington jazz fest Saturday, bands from across the region heard pointers from professional Jazz at Lincoln Center clinicians.
Sun Prairie's jazz band took note as they get ready for the national competition in May.
"It's a great, life-changing experience,” Sveum said. "They refer to it as the Super Bowl of jazz competitions. It really is." His students don’t call him coach, but Sveum leads the way.
"There's a lot of growth, and you never know where that's going to take you, and that's the fun part about this,” he said. One clinician referred to senior saxophonist Megan Rault as the Tom Brady of the team during practice.
"I don't really know football. I'm practicing a lot of the time, though,” Rault said. "But I feel like jazz band is more of a collaboration between everybody." Each plays their own part to create something bigger. "It's such an incredible feeling to feel. Everybody else is on the same page, beat, groove,” Rault said. “They can feel it, you can feel it. It's a good feeling." "These kids are working hard, and they're swinging,” said Steve Renko, assistant of student and family programs at the Jazz at Lincoln Center. “You hear how quickly they listen and sort of engage with the material they're given and how quickly they can change and become better, like that," he said, snapping his fingers.
Sun Prairie’s jazz band has made it this far. Now, they're building up to May's competition, in which the three top-placing bands perform alongside the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and jazz legend Wynton Marsalis. "That means you're the best jazz band in the country,” Rault said. “That would be crazy to think about." In Rault’s eyes, the opportunity is enough. "I think if we do the best we can do, I don't care the place we get,” she said. Sveum said he and the band directors from Beloit and Middleton are planning to hold a concert locally sometime before the national Essentially Ellington festival takes place.
From Channel 3000.com
At Sun Prairie's annual Essentially Ellington jazz fest Saturday, bands from across the region heard pointers from professional Jazz at Lincoln Center clinicians.
Sun Prairie's jazz band took note as they get ready for the national competition in May.
"It's a great, life-changing experience,” Sveum said. "They refer to it as the Super Bowl of jazz competitions. It really is." His students don’t call him coach, but Sveum leads the way.
"There's a lot of growth, and you never know where that's going to take you, and that's the fun part about this,” he said. One clinician referred to senior saxophonist Megan Rault as the Tom Brady of the team during practice.
"I don't really know football. I'm practicing a lot of the time, though,” Rault said. "But I feel like jazz band is more of a collaboration between everybody." Each plays their own part to create something bigger. "It's such an incredible feeling to feel. Everybody else is on the same page, beat, groove,” Rault said. “They can feel it, you can feel it. It's a good feeling." "These kids are working hard, and they're swinging,” said Steve Renko, assistant of student and family programs at the Jazz at Lincoln Center. “You hear how quickly they listen and sort of engage with the material they're given and how quickly they can change and become better, like that," he said, snapping his fingers.
Sun Prairie’s jazz band has made it this far. Now, they're building up to May's competition, in which the three top-placing bands perform alongside the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and jazz legend Wynton Marsalis. "That means you're the best jazz band in the country,” Rault said. “That would be crazy to think about." In Rault’s eyes, the opportunity is enough. "I think if we do the best we can do, I don't care the place we get,” she said. Sveum said he and the band directors from Beloit and Middleton are planning to hold a concert locally sometime before the national Essentially Ellington festival takes place.
From Channel 3000.com
SP Music Students contribute to the success of the "Pajama Game"
For the past several weeks, SPHS music students have been contributing to the success of the Sun Prairie High School musical production, "the Pajama Game". Tuba player, Erin Milleville has the female lead as "Babe" and is joined by several of her music colleagues in the Cast, Crew and Pit Orchestra. Congrats all members for a successful run of "The Pajama Game" which concludes on November 16, 17 and 18, 2018 in the SPHS PAC
Convention Week brings out the "STARS"
Convention week in October always brings out the "Stars" in the SPHS band department but this year was especially eventful. Monday brought professional jazz drummer and former director of Jazz Studies at Juilliard, Carl Allen to the SPHS band room to work with rhythm sections and Jazz I. Mr. Allen worked hard to impart the knowledge of swing, getting deeper into the music, remaining curious, and always record yourself and your rehearsals to improve. Mr. Allen worked with students for 3 hours and then stayed to answer student questions for an additional 45 minutes.
Tuesday we were proud to host the only Wisconsin performance of "The Presdent's Own" the United State Marine Band from Washington DC. The band played a stellar concert that was inspiring on many levels. Also before the concert, Colonel Fettig met with Mike Leckrone, Scott Teeple and Mr. Sveum to talk about Sousa, the tour and other musical topics. Mr. Leckrone was out to SPHS the week before to educate us all on the Sousa/Marine Band - Leckrones' father was a member of the Sousa band - and educate us on performance practices of the band - including recreating a "Patrol". Colonel Fettig also presented a wonderful photo of the Marine Band at the White House dedicated to Sun Prairie High School.
Wednesday morning, the Clarinet Quartet from the Marine came to present a 30 minute performance followed by a 30 minute Q & A. One of the highlights of the morning performance was the incredibly clean and fast single tongue articulation that the members of the quartet produced. They also passed tone and melodies seamlessly throughout the group.
Friday, we were once again honored to welcome Professor Matt Schlomer from the Interlochen Arts Academy to SPHS. Professor Schlomer focused on breathing by changing the shape of our bodies and allowing air to enter. He was very focused on Somatics. He was able to gift us with many more overtones in our sounds. He worked with the Wind Ensemble for 87 minutes followed by 30 minutes of extra work with our saxophone section.
All in all, a great week of music and music education at SPHS!
Tuesday we were proud to host the only Wisconsin performance of "The Presdent's Own" the United State Marine Band from Washington DC. The band played a stellar concert that was inspiring on many levels. Also before the concert, Colonel Fettig met with Mike Leckrone, Scott Teeple and Mr. Sveum to talk about Sousa, the tour and other musical topics. Mr. Leckrone was out to SPHS the week before to educate us all on the Sousa/Marine Band - Leckrones' father was a member of the Sousa band - and educate us on performance practices of the band - including recreating a "Patrol". Colonel Fettig also presented a wonderful photo of the Marine Band at the White House dedicated to Sun Prairie High School.
Wednesday morning, the Clarinet Quartet from the Marine came to present a 30 minute performance followed by a 30 minute Q & A. One of the highlights of the morning performance was the incredibly clean and fast single tongue articulation that the members of the quartet produced. They also passed tone and melodies seamlessly throughout the group.
Friday, we were once again honored to welcome Professor Matt Schlomer from the Interlochen Arts Academy to SPHS. Professor Schlomer focused on breathing by changing the shape of our bodies and allowing air to enter. He was very focused on Somatics. He was able to gift us with many more overtones in our sounds. He worked with the Wind Ensemble for 87 minutes followed by 30 minutes of extra work with our saxophone section.
All in all, a great week of music and music education at SPHS!
Madison Brass Quintet visits SPHS
Members of the Madison Brass Quintet joined the Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble for a special clinic and rehearsal this past Wednesday. The quintet players initially worked with the brass section to play a bit of music by renaissance composer Giovanni Gabrieli, dividing them into 3 differently arranged choirs. These choirs helped students to learn about how different levels of high vs low sounding instruments can affect the ensemble blend and balance. They also received instruction on one of the Wind Ensemble’s upcoming performance pieces, the Overture to Candide by Leonard Bernstein.
The clinic leads up to Brass Fest V at UW Madison this weekend, where renowned brass players will be hosting concerts and rehearsals that are open to the public. This also includes free master classes for students to learn from these players. More information on the event can be found at: https://www.music.wisc.edu/event/brass-fest-v-alumni-students-faculty/
The clinic leads up to Brass Fest V at UW Madison this weekend, where renowned brass players will be hosting concerts and rehearsals that are open to the public. This also includes free master classes for students to learn from these players. More information on the event can be found at: https://www.music.wisc.edu/event/brass-fest-v-alumni-students-faculty/
SPHS Band Students support Ironman in Madison
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SPHS Band Alumni parent and former teacher Dave Kostka organized a group of SPHS band students to work the annual Ironman competition in Madison this past weekend. The students supported the competitors along the route and had a good time in the process!
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Welcome to the 2018 - 2019 School Year!
In our turbulent times, perhaps it is time to consider "The Healing Power of Music". Below is a link to an article that appeared in the Summer, 2018 edition of "Philanthorpy" magazine. Not a magazine that band directors normally subscribe to, but one that the Sun Prairie Band appeared in recently in another article referring to the value of the "Essentially Ellington" program. In fact, the first two words that article are, "Sun Prairie".
https://www.philanthropyroundtable.org/philanthropy-magazine/article/the-healing-power-of-music
Enjoy and welcome to the school year 2018-19!
https://www.philanthropyroundtable.org/philanthropy-magazine/article/the-healing-power-of-music
Enjoy and welcome to the school year 2018-19!
Final Performance for SPHS Bands
All non senior members of the band program performed one more act of community service by performing at the graduation ceremony on Friday, June 8, 2018. This was the first ever Sun Prairie High School graduation held at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Madison. The crowd appeared to be in the area of 5,000 6,000 people. It was a great way to show appreciation to all of our seniors and especially our band seniors who have given so much to our program. Thank you to all of our students and families for a wonderful and event filled 2017-2018!
Have a great summer!
Have a great summer!
SPHS students selected for 2018 Wisconsin High School Honors Project
Congratulations to the following students for being selected for the 2018 Wisconsin High School State Honors Project:
Megan Rault - Alto Sax, Band
Sydney Kostelac - Flute, Band
Matt Anderson - Euphonium, Band
Pierre Tan - Baritone Saxophone, Jazz Ensemble
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the High School State Honors Music Project is designed to provide musically talented students with the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the nation’s finest conductors in a professional and highly disciplined setting. Students are challenged to perform at their musical best throughout the rehearsal period, which culminates with an inspired performance, celebrating the reach of music education statewide.
Auditions were held in seven sites across the state this past February. Of the more than 1,500 auditions, 428 students in grades 9, 10 and 11 were invited to be part of the WSMA High School State Honors Music Project ensembles.
Students selected to participate in the WSMA High School State Honors Music Project will meet for the first time at an intensive four-day summer camp at UW-Green Bay. The WSMA High School Honors Summer Camp is a unique and essential component to the High School Honors Project experience as it is the first opportunity the selected students have to see their music, meet the conductor and rehearse as a newly formed ensemble. Camp dates are as follows: June 16-19 Band, Mixed Choir and Jazz Ensemble; June 20-23, Orchestra and Treble Choir. All Honors students reconvene in Madison in late October to perform at the annual Wisconsin State Music Conference. The Honors concerts celebrate the remarkable achievements of Wisconsin’s finest young musicians and are open to the public.
Megan Rault - Alto Sax, Band
Sydney Kostelac - Flute, Band
Matt Anderson - Euphonium, Band
Pierre Tan - Baritone Saxophone, Jazz Ensemble
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the High School State Honors Music Project is designed to provide musically talented students with the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the nation’s finest conductors in a professional and highly disciplined setting. Students are challenged to perform at their musical best throughout the rehearsal period, which culminates with an inspired performance, celebrating the reach of music education statewide.
Auditions were held in seven sites across the state this past February. Of the more than 1,500 auditions, 428 students in grades 9, 10 and 11 were invited to be part of the WSMA High School State Honors Music Project ensembles.
Students selected to participate in the WSMA High School State Honors Music Project will meet for the first time at an intensive four-day summer camp at UW-Green Bay. The WSMA High School Honors Summer Camp is a unique and essential component to the High School Honors Project experience as it is the first opportunity the selected students have to see their music, meet the conductor and rehearse as a newly formed ensemble. Camp dates are as follows: June 16-19 Band, Mixed Choir and Jazz Ensemble; June 20-23, Orchestra and Treble Choir. All Honors students reconvene in Madison in late October to perform at the annual Wisconsin State Music Conference. The Honors concerts celebrate the remarkable achievements of Wisconsin’s finest young musicians and are open to the public.
SPHS Jazz Ensemble kicks off the Isthmus Jazz Festival 2018!!
Members of the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I closed out their very successful 2017-2018 season by playing an hour and fifteen minute set at the Memorial Union Terrace on Saturday, June 2nd to kick off the 2018 Isthmus Jazz Festival. It was the first outdoor performance of the festival. The band played a variety of of music including compositions by Duke Ellington, Benny Carter, Paquito d'Rivera and more. The band also stretched out on "Blues in the Closet" and "On the Sunny Side of the Street". The weather was about 15 degrees cooler than the day before and slightly overcast making it a beautiful and comfortable day to play some jazz on the shores of Lake Mendota! Thank you Jazz I for this and many wonderful performances this year!
SPHS Band honors Veterans on Memorial Day
Sun Prairie High School Band Students participated once again in the Sun Prairie Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony held on Monday, May 28th. Sound of Sun Prairie members marched the Memorial Day Parade along Main Street. All band seniors had the opportunity to perform at the Memorial Day Service at the Veterans Memorial on South Walker Way. The Band performed the Star Spangled Banner, America's Pride - "the Post 333" March and performed a postlude with John Phillip Sousa's, "The Lamb's March". It was a great way for our students to say thank you and experience the true meaning of Memorial Day.
SPHS Jazz 1 "Essentially Ellington" 2018
Congratulations to member of SPHS Jazz Ensemble I who represented us all so well in New York. The band met at 3:15am on Wednesday, May 9th to head out to New York. Upon their arrival at LaGuardia airport in New York they traveled to the historic Apollo theater in Harlem, enjoyed some soul food at Sylvia’s, walked in Central Park and had a great meal at Carmine’s in Times Square
The next day we rehearsed at a professional rehearsal studio on 46th street, ate lunch on 7th avenue and proceeded to Jazz at Lincoln Center for the welcoming “Cheer Tunnel”. This was followed by an open rehearsal of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra accompanied with a question and answer session. Kyra Devlin asked a very good question about women in jazz that Wynton Marsalis thoughtfully responded to. After that there were sectionals led by members of the J@LC Orchestra. That evening students were treated to dinner overlooking central park and a jam session in which 8 of our students participated.
The next day was our rehearsal at J@LC with our mentor, Marcus Printup. Marcus had some great information to share. After that we heard 8 fantastic high school bands perform in part I of the competition. That evening we walked to Birdland - a jazz club near Times square - to have dinner and hear the Bill Charlap Trio. It was a great performance!
The following day it was our turn to perform at the festival. We warmed up with both Mr. Printup and our old friend Kenny Rampton in attendance.
The band played very well and everyone had a good time. Several reed players were recognized for their performance. We earned an Outstanding Saxophone Section award as well as individual awards. Megan Rault for Outstanding Soprano Saxophone, Bennett Leclaire for Outstanding Tenor Saxophone, Kyra Devlin for Honorable Mention Soprano Saxophone and Dillon Crawford for Honorable Mention Clarinet.
That evening we heard the 3 top placing bands and the J@LC Orchestra in performance followed by the awards ceremony. Mr Sveum was also fortunate to have Bob Stewart introduce him to Mercedes Ellington, Duke’s granddaughter just before the concert began.
This is a band to be proud of as two entire sections of the band were completely new to Jazz I this year. Students worked hard individually and in sectionals, did a lot of listening and transcribing and really took ownership of their own playing. It took a while to develop as a band, but in the last several weeks there was not a rehearsal where something did not noticeably improve. Congratulations to all in the band for their outstanding hard work that led to a memorable performance at Rose Hall on May 12, 2018! Congratulations SPHS Jazz I !!!!
The next day we rehearsed at a professional rehearsal studio on 46th street, ate lunch on 7th avenue and proceeded to Jazz at Lincoln Center for the welcoming “Cheer Tunnel”. This was followed by an open rehearsal of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra accompanied with a question and answer session. Kyra Devlin asked a very good question about women in jazz that Wynton Marsalis thoughtfully responded to. After that there were sectionals led by members of the J@LC Orchestra. That evening students were treated to dinner overlooking central park and a jam session in which 8 of our students participated.
The next day was our rehearsal at J@LC with our mentor, Marcus Printup. Marcus had some great information to share. After that we heard 8 fantastic high school bands perform in part I of the competition. That evening we walked to Birdland - a jazz club near Times square - to have dinner and hear the Bill Charlap Trio. It was a great performance!
The following day it was our turn to perform at the festival. We warmed up with both Mr. Printup and our old friend Kenny Rampton in attendance.
The band played very well and everyone had a good time. Several reed players were recognized for their performance. We earned an Outstanding Saxophone Section award as well as individual awards. Megan Rault for Outstanding Soprano Saxophone, Bennett Leclaire for Outstanding Tenor Saxophone, Kyra Devlin for Honorable Mention Soprano Saxophone and Dillon Crawford for Honorable Mention Clarinet.
That evening we heard the 3 top placing bands and the J@LC Orchestra in performance followed by the awards ceremony. Mr Sveum was also fortunate to have Bob Stewart introduce him to Mercedes Ellington, Duke’s granddaughter just before the concert began.
This is a band to be proud of as two entire sections of the band were completely new to Jazz I this year. Students worked hard individually and in sectionals, did a lot of listening and transcribing and really took ownership of their own playing. It took a while to develop as a band, but in the last several weeks there was not a rehearsal where something did not noticeably improve. Congratulations to all in the band for their outstanding hard work that led to a memorable performance at Rose Hall on May 12, 2018! Congratulations SPHS Jazz I !!!!
SPHS Saxophonists earn honors
Congratulations to our Saxophones for doing so well at both State Solo/Ensemble and at the "Essentially Ellington" jazz festival and competition in New York.
The saxophone quartet, comprised of Megan Rault and Brunella Lozano on Alto Saxophone with Bennet Leclaire and Dillon Crawford on Tenor Saxophone were cited as "Exemplary Soloists" at the State Solo and Ensemble festival held at UW-Whitewater on April 28, 2018. Megan Rault also earned an individual "Exemplary Soloist" Award for her alto saxophone solo.
Our saxophone players once again were recognized for their outstanding performance at the "Essentially Ellington" national jazz festival final held in New York City on Saturday, May 12th. They collectively earned an Outstanding Saxophone Section award and earned several individual awards. The saxophone section consisted of Kyra Devlin, Megan Rault, Bennett Leclaire, Dillon Crawford and Pierre Tan. Their individual recognition was as follows: Megan Rault, Outstanding Soprano Saxophone; Kyra Devlin, Honorable Mention Soprano Saxophone; Bennett Leclaire, Outstanding Tenor Saxophone and Dillon Crawford, Honorable Mention, Clarinet. The individual award winners were invited to the stage at Rose Hall to be personally congratulated by 9 time Grammy Winner, Wynton Marsalis.
Congratulations Sun Prairie HS Saxophonists on a job well done!!
The saxophone quartet, comprised of Megan Rault and Brunella Lozano on Alto Saxophone with Bennet Leclaire and Dillon Crawford on Tenor Saxophone were cited as "Exemplary Soloists" at the State Solo and Ensemble festival held at UW-Whitewater on April 28, 2018. Megan Rault also earned an individual "Exemplary Soloist" Award for her alto saxophone solo.
Our saxophone players once again were recognized for their outstanding performance at the "Essentially Ellington" national jazz festival final held in New York City on Saturday, May 12th. They collectively earned an Outstanding Saxophone Section award and earned several individual awards. The saxophone section consisted of Kyra Devlin, Megan Rault, Bennett Leclaire, Dillon Crawford and Pierre Tan. Their individual recognition was as follows: Megan Rault, Outstanding Soprano Saxophone; Kyra Devlin, Honorable Mention Soprano Saxophone; Bennett Leclaire, Outstanding Tenor Saxophone and Dillon Crawford, Honorable Mention, Clarinet. The individual award winners were invited to the stage at Rose Hall to be personally congratulated by 9 time Grammy Winner, Wynton Marsalis.
Congratulations Sun Prairie HS Saxophonists on a job well done!!
Viet Cuong visit SPHS Wind Ensemble
Composer Viet Cuong and St, Charles band director Jim Kull visited the SPHS on Tuesday May 1st. Mr. Cuong was the commission consortium composer this year and composed a piece entitled, "Lasting Light" which was inspired by the light that lingers just after sunset. The piece features many sound colors and has some special effects. Mr. Cuong really enjoyed the sound of the band and especially Ella Emad's beautiful rendition of the french horn solo that Mr. Cuong has written. The Wind Ensemble will perform the Wisconsin premier of this piece on our final concert of the year on Tuesday, May 22nd in the SPHS Performing Arts Center.
Final Prep for Jazz 1 going to NYC - Essentially Ellington
Jazz I headed into their final full week of preparation for the national "Essentially Ellington" jazz festival and competition by working with some great clinicians as well as supporting the Sunshine Place. Clinicians Ron Carter, Jim Huwe, Jon Schipper, Mark Hetzler and Brianna Hepfler all contribute their thoughts on how the band could take their music to the next level
As a payback to the community, the band was the featured live entertainment at the Sunshine Ball held at Buck and Honeys on Sunday, April 29. The band played three sets of music to the delight of those in attendance.
Still to come is the"Send Off"Concert on Monday, May 7th at 8pm in the SPHS PAC. Tickets are $5 student and senior and $10 for adults. There will also be an opportunity to bid on a one hour plane ride to a destination of your choice.
Then the band departs for NYC on Wednesday, May 9th and performs on Saturday, May 12th at approximately 9:40am Sun Prairie time. The performance can be seen live at http://www.jazz.org/media/live-webcasts/
As a payback to the community, the band was the featured live entertainment at the Sunshine Ball held at Buck and Honeys on Sunday, April 29. The band played three sets of music to the delight of those in attendance.
Still to come is the"Send Off"Concert on Monday, May 7th at 8pm in the SPHS PAC. Tickets are $5 student and senior and $10 for adults. There will also be an opportunity to bid on a one hour plane ride to a destination of your choice.
Then the band departs for NYC on Wednesday, May 9th and performs on Saturday, May 12th at approximately 9:40am Sun Prairie time. The performance can be seen live at http://www.jazz.org/media/live-webcasts/
SPHS Band Student, Michael Wu, wins Steinway & Sons Piano Competition.
Last week, pianist Michael Wu--age 16 and a current Sophomore at Sun Prairie High School--received national recognition after taking the gold medal in his age category (ages 16-18) for the Inaugural Steinway and Sons National Piano Competition. His program consisted of Claude Debussy's 'Reflets dans l'eau' (From 'Images', Book I) and the fourth movement of Lowell Liebermann's Gargoyles. Michael competed with a large pool of applicants hailing from an extensive geographic area that includes the Chicago and Twin City Metropolitan areas.
In addition, following a rigorous and highly selective prescreening process last month, Michael was appointed a member of the 'Junior Jury' for the upcoming 2018 PianoArts North American Piano Competition and Music Festival at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. As the youngest appointee in the longstanding competition's history, Michael will have the opportunity to collaborate, learn with, and work alongside the internationally-renowned main jury (this year consisting of pianists/pedagogues John Perry, Ann Schein, and Joyce Yang) in evaluating the performances of twelve semifinalists ('PianoArtists') ages 17-21 next month. Throughout this experience, Michael will receive conservatory-level training that includes masterclasses with the jury/guest faculty, musicianship and anxiety-management classes such as 'Conducting' and 'Pilates for Musicians', and many, many performance opportunities. Michael's previous experience with PianoArts occurred at the age of 12, where he took first prize in their 'Wisconsin Youth Piano Competition' and subsequently performed the Beethoven Piano Concerto no. 1 with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Dinur in six biennial 'Youth Concerts'. He studies privately with Mr. Bill Lutes, emeritus professor and artist-in-residence at the UW-Madison School of Music.
In addition, following a rigorous and highly selective prescreening process last month, Michael was appointed a member of the 'Junior Jury' for the upcoming 2018 PianoArts North American Piano Competition and Music Festival at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. As the youngest appointee in the longstanding competition's history, Michael will have the opportunity to collaborate, learn with, and work alongside the internationally-renowned main jury (this year consisting of pianists/pedagogues John Perry, Ann Schein, and Joyce Yang) in evaluating the performances of twelve semifinalists ('PianoArtists') ages 17-21 next month. Throughout this experience, Michael will receive conservatory-level training that includes masterclasses with the jury/guest faculty, musicianship and anxiety-management classes such as 'Conducting' and 'Pilates for Musicians', and many, many performance opportunities. Michael's previous experience with PianoArts occurred at the age of 12, where he took first prize in their 'Wisconsin Youth Piano Competition' and subsequently performed the Beethoven Piano Concerto no. 1 with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Dinur in six biennial 'Youth Concerts'. He studies privately with Mr. Bill Lutes, emeritus professor and artist-in-residence at the UW-Madison School of Music.
SPHS Band Musicians Perform Live on Wisconsin Public Radio
Kyra Devlin and Michael Wu appear on Wisconsin PublicRadio’s “Midday” show Hosted by Norman Gilleland. Kyra performed as part of a Woodwind Quintet made up of student musicians of the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra (WYSO). She performed the Charles Lefebvre's Suite Opus 3 live on Monday, April 16th and Michael performed live on Friday, April 13th, Franz Schubert's "Trout" Quintet. You can listen to the show on the links listed below
Well done!!
- https://www.wpr.org/shows/wisconsin-youth-symphany-orchestras-ensembles-ii - Kyra
- https://www.wpr.org/shows/wisconsin-youth-symphony-orchestras-ensembles-i - Michael
Well done!!
Jazz at Lincoln Center artist prepares students for "EE" National Jazz Festival & Competition
Jazz at Lincoln Center sent Juilliard Jazz trombone professor and Jazz Ensemble director, James Burton to Sun Prairie High School to help the students in SPHS Jazz I prepare for their national finalist performance on Saturday, May 12 at approximately 9:40am Central Time.
Mr. Burton spoke many truths about listening and playing with intent. He talked about our brass players using the duality of power and control. Our saxophones need to match vibrato and intent and not overplay the lead alto. He also reiterated how important our rhythm section is and that the drummer is the real leader of the band, the person that tells us all what is about to happen and gives us permission to play our dynamics.
He also looked for ways to make the music personal. He wanted shimmer in our Charleston longer notes. He also mentioned to make out backgrounds a “bubbling pot” of excitement to spur on our soloists.
We also enjoyed some wonderful food and students had many great questions for our guest. Overall, still lots to do, but always getting better.
Mr. Burton spoke many truths about listening and playing with intent. He talked about our brass players using the duality of power and control. Our saxophones need to match vibrato and intent and not overplay the lead alto. He also reiterated how important our rhythm section is and that the drummer is the real leader of the band, the person that tells us all what is about to happen and gives us permission to play our dynamics.
He also looked for ways to make the music personal. He wanted shimmer in our Charleston longer notes. He also mentioned to make out backgrounds a “bubbling pot” of excitement to spur on our soloists.
We also enjoyed some wonderful food and students had many great questions for our guest. Overall, still lots to do, but always getting better.
Another busy week in SPHS Bands heading into Spring Break
We have been fortunate to have several top notch clinicians stop in over the past week to work with our students. From the University of Michigan, we had Ellen Rowe (jazz piano) and Andrew Bishop (jazz clarinet and saxophone) work with our jazz I saxes and rhythm section. The session began with the duo playing a Dave Brubeck tune followed by a composition by Ms. Rowe. Her tune was inspired by saxophonist Michael Brecker and featured unison playing between the saxophone and piano that was wonderful. Mr. Bishop played completely different on this tune and used the harmonic language of Michael Brecker. We then broke in to two groups - the rhythm section worked on balance, orchestration and time in the rhythm section and the saxophones spent some solid time on their soli in "Cottontail". When the two groups came back together, they all worked on solos on "the Shiek of Araby" and communication between solos and rhythm section.
This past Monday, Reggie Thomas from Northern Illinois University returned with three of his graduate students who played saxophone, trombone and drum set. We all knew it was going to be a good night when Reggie made Bennett stretch out on "Cottontail" with extra chorus' followed by Bennett and the grad student trading 4's - it completely freed everything up and Bennet sounded great!
Then on Wednesday, the Wisconsin Brass from UW-Madison performed for the Concert Band Red and a longer program for the Wind Ensemble. They played a variety of music of all styles and ended with a tune by Charles Mingus. They were joined by UW Percussion faculty member, Anthony DiSanza. There was also time for little question and answer and an opportunity for the tuba and trombone to pass a note between them, demonstrate multi-phonics, lip trills and how to gliss notes on the trumpet.
Wednesday was capped off by a skype lesson between Mallory Keating and jazz trumpet/jazz vocalist Bria Skonberg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG6NG6CK69w) She was here last spring (thanks you Madison Jazz Society) and really inspired us with her fantastic spirit and enthusiasm for the music. Please check out the youtube video link above to hear what a unique and wonderful talent she is! Ms. Skonberg worked with Mallory to tell a sad story, because, well, "Ain't got Nothin' but the Blues". Mallory received some wonderful information from the master right here at SPHS via Ms. Skonberg on the West Coast.
This past Monday, Reggie Thomas from Northern Illinois University returned with three of his graduate students who played saxophone, trombone and drum set. We all knew it was going to be a good night when Reggie made Bennett stretch out on "Cottontail" with extra chorus' followed by Bennett and the grad student trading 4's - it completely freed everything up and Bennet sounded great!
Then on Wednesday, the Wisconsin Brass from UW-Madison performed for the Concert Band Red and a longer program for the Wind Ensemble. They played a variety of music of all styles and ended with a tune by Charles Mingus. They were joined by UW Percussion faculty member, Anthony DiSanza. There was also time for little question and answer and an opportunity for the tuba and trombone to pass a note between them, demonstrate multi-phonics, lip trills and how to gliss notes on the trumpet.
Wednesday was capped off by a skype lesson between Mallory Keating and jazz trumpet/jazz vocalist Bria Skonberg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG6NG6CK69w) She was here last spring (thanks you Madison Jazz Society) and really inspired us with her fantastic spirit and enthusiasm for the music. Please check out the youtube video link above to hear what a unique and wonderful talent she is! Ms. Skonberg worked with Mallory to tell a sad story, because, well, "Ain't got Nothin' but the Blues". Mallory received some wonderful information from the master right here at SPHS via Ms. Skonberg on the West Coast.
25th Annual Sun Prairie / Essentially Ellington Regional Jazz Festival a success!!
On Saturday, February 17, 2018 the Sun Prairie Band Boosters with generous support from Jazz at Lincoln Center, Ward Brodt Music and both the Birch Creek and Shell Lake jazz camps presented the 25th Annual Sun Prairie Jazz Festival, which for the past 6 years has also been a regional "Essentially Ellington" festival.
To learn & see more - go to the Sun Prairie JazzFest Page
To learn & see more - go to the Sun Prairie JazzFest Page
Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble recaps their New York City & Carnegie Hall Performance - February 2018
The Wind Ensemble recently complete an historic trip to perform at legendary Carnegie Hall in New York city as part of the Balwin Wallace invitational band festival. Our session included two bands from Louisiana and the Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble. Our first full day in New York included a day of rehearsal and clinics at Westfield High School in New Jersey. The band had the opportunity to hear a concert by a trio of principal brass players from the Cleveland Symphony followed by an ensemble clinic led by Interlochen Wind Ensemble conductor, Matt Schlomer and Baldwin Wallace Conservatory conductor, Brenden Caldwell. This was followed up by sectionals for all members of our band. That evening we attended the Broadway Show, "Aladin" and were met afterwards by the assistant pit orchestra conductor of "Aladin", who happened to be an SPHS alum. He was joined by several members of the cast who answered questions by the students after the show.
The next day was our performance at Carnegie. The hall is absolutely amazing and unlike anything I have ever heard before in my life. The student received two standing ovations, one at the end of their performance of David Maslanka's, "Angel of Mercy" and one at the conclusion of their entire, 30 minute performance. This was followed up by a 15 minute workshop with composer, Frank Ticheli. I also came to find out after the performance that I had conducted the band from Leonard Bernstein's podium!
Later that day, the band enjoyed a delicious meal at Carmine's and attended an evening performance at Carnegie Hall.
Our final day in New York included a tour of Lincoln Center where we saw a rehearsal of the New York Philharmonic in Geffen Hall and a dress rehearsal of an opera at the Metropolitan Opera. After the Met library to view and exhibit of the 100th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's birth.
We had lunch at the Time Warner building and the visited Jazz at Lincoln where members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center education staff came down to announce that the Sun Prairie Jazz Ensemble was selected as a national finalist for the "Essentially Ellington" festival. That makes 12 time overall and 6 years in a row!
We can all be proud of the good work our students are doing and I thank you for all you do to support your child in music!
The next day was our performance at Carnegie. The hall is absolutely amazing and unlike anything I have ever heard before in my life. The student received two standing ovations, one at the end of their performance of David Maslanka's, "Angel of Mercy" and one at the conclusion of their entire, 30 minute performance. This was followed up by a 15 minute workshop with composer, Frank Ticheli. I also came to find out after the performance that I had conducted the band from Leonard Bernstein's podium!
Later that day, the band enjoyed a delicious meal at Carmine's and attended an evening performance at Carnegie Hall.
Our final day in New York included a tour of Lincoln Center where we saw a rehearsal of the New York Philharmonic in Geffen Hall and a dress rehearsal of an opera at the Metropolitan Opera. After the Met library to view and exhibit of the 100th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's birth.
We had lunch at the Time Warner building and the visited Jazz at Lincoln where members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center education staff came down to announce that the Sun Prairie Jazz Ensemble was selected as a national finalist for the "Essentially Ellington" festival. That makes 12 time overall and 6 years in a row!
We can all be proud of the good work our students are doing and I thank you for all you do to support your child in music!
SPHS Brass Players attend Brass Fest @ UW Milwaukee
On January 29 Mr. Rush took the Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band Brass Sections along with the Concert Band Red French Horn Section to Brass Fest at UW-Milwaukee. We were also joined by the Hamilton Sussex High School Brass players The students attended master classes on their instruments, performed a piece for for our clinicians. After lunch some of the UW Milwaukee Brass Players along with the Brass faculty performed a variety of pieces for us. The day ended with us performing our pieces for each other followed by all brass up on stage working on two pieces which we then performed together to end the day. It was a wonderful day of Brass Music!
SPHS Jazz Ensemble performs for Madison Jazz Society
On Sunday, January 28, the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I performed at the "Stars of the Future" concert at the Wyndham hotel in Fitchburg for the Madison Jazz Society. Band played for an educated and appreciative audience as part of the MJS young people initiative. Our students played several piece and one that they learned by ear with many students playing a couple chorus of blues, while using standard jazz language and incorporating some ii-V patterns as well.
The Madison Jazz Society has donated thousands of dollars to our jazz program over the years in addition to support public school jazz programs throughout Wisconsin. They are an annual supporter of our Sun Prairie Jazz Festival. Other bands participating in the event were Verona HS Jazz Ensemble and the Beloit Memorial Jazz Ensemble.
The Madison Jazz Society has donated thousands of dollars to our jazz program over the years in addition to support public school jazz programs throughout Wisconsin. They are an annual supporter of our Sun Prairie Jazz Festival. Other bands participating in the event were Verona HS Jazz Ensemble and the Beloit Memorial Jazz Ensemble.
SPHS Jazz I does annaul "EE" Recording
SPHS Jazz Ensemble I recorded four "Essentially Ellington" selections this past Monday and Tuesday evening with Buzz Kemper from Audio for the Arts. Buzz has been doing these annual recordings since 1998 with Jazz I. The students recorded "Idiom 59: Part II", "The Sheik of Araby", "Feet Bone" and " I Ain't got Nothin' but the Blues". We will select 3 of these to submit in a blind audition for the "Essentially Ellington" national finals to be held in New York on May 10-12, 2018. The results of the blind audition will be announced in mid-February.
Regardless of the outcome for this competition, the band has grown tremendously in the preparation of this material. Each member of the band is able to play a convincing improvised blues solo utilizing common jazz language as well as create riffs behind soloists. Transcription has helped students become much more conversant in jazz articulation and style and the development of mature sound concepts.
Regardless of the outcome for this competition, the band has grown tremendously in the preparation of this material. Each member of the band is able to play a convincing improvised blues solo utilizing common jazz language as well as create riffs behind soloists. Transcription has helped students become much more conversant in jazz articulation and style and the development of mature sound concepts.
Wind Ensemble Performs at Wisconsin School Board Convention in Milwaukee
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The Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble played for school board members and school administrators from around the state at the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee this past week. The band performed three selections for the full house of appreciative school officials. The entire Sun Prairie school board was in attendance as well as Dr. Saron and former Sun Prairie Superintendent Dr. Culver.
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The Wind Ensemble received a standing ovation at the conclusion of their performance. The band also enjoyed pizza on the return trip. It was a good way to learn to play out on the road in preparation for their upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall in New York.
Marine Woodwind Quintet visits SPHS band students
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The United States Marine woodwind quintet of Hawaii visited SPHS this past week. They performed and interacted with all four High School Bands. Each class was different. With the Symphonic band they primarily played and talked about their daily lives as musicians in Hawaii.
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With the Concert Bands, they not only performed, but also talked about how they rehearse and work out chamber music. They projected one of their parts on the big screen so all could see how much attention to detail they paid to their written parts as well as how much musicality they added to what was NOT in their parts. Finally, with the Wind Ensemble, they played two movements from one of their quintet pieces and then sat in with the band as they played and rehearsed some of the Wind Ensemble music. They had great comments to make on our music and were impressed with the students attention and musicality - in all of the bands.
And in case you were wondering, they were all in Hawaii when the errant nuclear missile threat came through and were excited to leave their 82 degree weather for our snow!
And in case you were wondering, they were all in Hawaii when the errant nuclear missile threat came through and were excited to leave their 82 degree weather for our snow!
SPHS Bands work with Legendary East Coast Band Director, Stephen Massey
On Thursday and Friday, January 4 & 5, 2018, legendary band director, Stephen Massey worked with students in all bands at SPHS. Mr. Massey taught for 47 years in the public schools on the east coast, most of them at Foxboro High School in Foxboro, Massachusetts. His concert bands traveled the world, played numerous conventions and placed first in national concert band competitions. His jazz ensembles were 17 time finalists at the "Essentially Ellington" finals, winning it once. placing second once and placing third 3 times.
He brought a great deal of passion and energy to his teaching. He encouraged students to fall in love with each others sounds in an effort to create greater transparency in the ensemble sound. He made it clear that they didn't all have to be best friends but that they needed to find a way to know more about each other as musicians. He also encourage an environment of collaboration and improvisation. He also is an advocate of changing up the set up of an ensemble. He set up the wind ensemble in concentric circles and completely changed the way we were able to hear "Irish Tune"
Mr. Massey had a great amount of energy. He worked all school day Thursday, a three hour rehearsal on Thursday night (accompanied by many of the district band staff that contributed mightily to sectional work that night!) and then was ready in the hotel lobby by 6:05am to come to SPHS for more work with the jazz ensemble, jazz rhythm section and teaching concert band red to improvise. As we pulled into the parking lot at 6:15am Mr. Massey said, "I don't think people realize what band directors become accustomed to doing. These couple days just felt like what we always did at Foxboro."
We thank Mr. Massey and our own band staff for their help in teaching our High School musicians. All in all, a very inspiring couple of days!
He brought a great deal of passion and energy to his teaching. He encouraged students to fall in love with each others sounds in an effort to create greater transparency in the ensemble sound. He made it clear that they didn't all have to be best friends but that they needed to find a way to know more about each other as musicians. He also encourage an environment of collaboration and improvisation. He also is an advocate of changing up the set up of an ensemble. He set up the wind ensemble in concentric circles and completely changed the way we were able to hear "Irish Tune"
Mr. Massey had a great amount of energy. He worked all school day Thursday, a three hour rehearsal on Thursday night (accompanied by many of the district band staff that contributed mightily to sectional work that night!) and then was ready in the hotel lobby by 6:05am to come to SPHS for more work with the jazz ensemble, jazz rhythm section and teaching concert band red to improvise. As we pulled into the parking lot at 6:15am Mr. Massey said, "I don't think people realize what band directors become accustomed to doing. These couple days just felt like what we always did at Foxboro."
We thank Mr. Massey and our own band staff for their help in teaching our High School musicians. All in all, a very inspiring couple of days!
SPHS Symphonic Band & Madison College Municipal Band combine for Concert on Thursday 12/7/17
THe SPHS Symphonic Band under the direction of Dave Rush and the Madison College Municipal Band under the direction of Scott Teeple combined for a concert at the SPHS Performing Arts Center on Thursday, December 8th. The concert night began with the two bands rehearsing the English Folk Song Suite and Salavation is Created in the Band Room - quite a large sound with the two groups combined.
The concert began with the Symphonic Band performing the "Nimrod" overture followed by "Havendance" The band played with great enthusiasm and set the stage for the Madison College band. Mr. Teeple programmed four selections for his ensemble. The Concert concluded with Mr. Rush conducting the combined bands on "Salvation is Created" and Mr. Teeple ended the evening by conducting the combined bands in a portion of the English Folk Song Suite.
The adults in the Madison College Municipal Band represented folks from many different careers continuing their love of music no matter where their vocational life may have taken them. It was a great night of collaboration and music.
The concert began with the Symphonic Band performing the "Nimrod" overture followed by "Havendance" The band played with great enthusiasm and set the stage for the Madison College band. Mr. Teeple programmed four selections for his ensemble. The Concert concluded with Mr. Rush conducting the combined bands on "Salvation is Created" and Mr. Teeple ended the evening by conducting the combined bands in a portion of the English Folk Song Suite.
The adults in the Madison College Municipal Band represented folks from many different careers continuing their love of music no matter where their vocational life may have taken them. It was a great night of collaboration and music.
Ron Carter brings the Art of Swing to SPHS!
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Our old friend Ron Carter made his annual pilgrimage to SPHS the week before Thanksgiving and helped Jazz I and II make big strides forward in their concepts of swing and listening. He also stressed the importance of improvisation and being solid on your fundamentals of playing your instrument. He was looking for more "Doom" in the bass and more "Stomping the Stallion" in our shuffle feel.
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He also mentioned that the key to Duke Ellingtons' music was to be sure that no two accents were the same. He was looking for balance and conversation in all parts of the band. Another major point he brought up was singing along with the original recordings and recording yourself the better hear what you are playing. Playing jazz is like cooking: listening to recordings and singing is like cooking from the recipe in the cookbook and then as you get to know the recipe you start to add some of your own spices to make your cooking personal. Just like playing jazz, learn to emulate the recordings of the masters and then make it personal by adding things you have heard and transcribed in the listening process.
Always great to have Ron Carter in the house....
Always great to have Ron Carter in the house....
Big weekend of extracurricular music for SPHS Band (11.13.17)
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Many SPHS band students had a busy weekend of performing at SPHS. "Seussical" the musical opened this past week. Several band students are involved in all aspects of the production from stage managing to crew to acting and of course performing in the pit. This year's production has music nearly continuously from beginning to end so it is a very big undertaking. The students are doing a wonderful job in all of their roles with this show! It runs three more times this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
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There were also 12 jazz students who performed for two hours for the 8th Annual "Links" Jazz Brunch at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Madison. The group played standard jazz tunes and small group arrangements for this performance. All students improvised and incorporated jazz language and riffs into their playing. The SPHS ensemble was warmly received by those in attendance. Great work SPHS band students!!!
UW-Oshkosh Brass Quintet visits Sun Prairie Bands
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The UW-Oshkosh brass Quintet stopped by the SPHS band room on Thursday, November 9th to perform and work with the Wind Ensemble. The group, led by trumpet professor, Marty Robinson, played a varied program for the Wind Ensemble. Other members of the group included Bruce Atwell- french horn, Dylan Chmura-Moore-Trombone and Orchestral Conductor, and Devin Otto - tuba and Wind Ensemble Conductor. They emphasized the importance of a good warm up and developing flexibility in your playing.
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After the 30 minute performance. Dr. Otto led the Sun Prairie Wind Ensemble in playing "Irish Tune" with members of the Oshkosh faculty sitting in with the band. It was a great performance that was enhanced when Dr. Chmura-Moore suggested that the players communicate with their bodies as they had done in the warm up. It was a very beneficial visit by the faculty from UW-Oshkosh who enjoyed their time working with our students.
Busy last week of October for Sun Prairie Bands
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As usual, the days leading up to and through the State Music Convention were busy. First, Sophomore trumpet player Kira Brown, prepared and performed for the state music convention at the Overture Center. The broadcast of which was streamed live statewide on Wisconsin Public Television on Thursday, October 19, 2017.
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The week prior to the convention, former Juilliard Jazz Director and professional jazz drummer, Carl Allen, worked with students from Jazz I and II over at Cardinal Heights. Mr. Allen brought a wealth of knowledge to the rhythm sections and spent a good amount of time with all members of Jazz I. He emphasized being curious and finding about the men and women who originally played the music. He encourage students to study privately, practice and listen to the music.
Our old friend, Reggie Thomas also stopped by to help Jazz I prepare for a session at the convention entitled, "Teaching Improvisation in the Large Group Setting" Reggie also emphasized the importance of rhythm in creating anything musical. He encouraged students to "tell their story" through the music. The session was presented Thursdaymorning in the Lecture Hall at Monona Terrace for a statewide audience. The morning concluded with a hearty meal at the "5 Guys"
Another good stretch of music education and collaboration here at Sun Prairie High School.
Our old friend, Reggie Thomas also stopped by to help Jazz I prepare for a session at the convention entitled, "Teaching Improvisation in the Large Group Setting" Reggie also emphasized the importance of rhythm in creating anything musical. He encouraged students to "tell their story" through the music. The session was presented Thursdaymorning in the Lecture Hall at Monona Terrace for a statewide audience. The morning concluded with a hearty meal at the "5 Guys"
Another good stretch of music education and collaboration here at Sun Prairie High School.
October brings many guests to SPHS Band
The last two weeks have been very eventful and chock full of visitors. We have had Dr. Laura McLaughlin, clarinet professor from UW-Oshkosh in working with our clarinet players as well as three visits from UW- Madison Wind Ensemble conductor, Scott Teeple. On Professor Teeple's last visit to the Wind Ensemble, he also brought along other UW- Madison Faculty including, new flute professor, Tim Hagens and UW- Madison Orchestra conductor, Chad Hutchinson as well as a graduate student from North Carolina - what a great day! SPHS principal, Mr. Nerby was even able to join us for a good portion of the rehearsal. Mr. Teeple stated that it is important to keep this program going and that the "eyes of Wiscsonsin" were on this band program, knowing that is has an important role not only in our community, but for our entire state!
Just recently, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra member and trumpet artist, Kenny Rampton spent four hours working with both the Jazz Ensemble I and the Wind Ensemble. His impact was immediately noticeable in both groups as he made some familiar (use more air) comments as well as gave us all a better understanding of what makes the music personal. He also spoke of making every note "intentional" and to "own" our playing. He also spent time working on improvisation and specific techniques of the trumpet including half valve and plunger techniques. He recommended playing a comfortable note over and over again with a metronome playing just one quarter note per measure to really get into what it takes to start a note. He worked on the importance of all notes starting on time with the Wind Ensemble as well as thinking in unbroken phrases. Another great day!
Just recently, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra member and trumpet artist, Kenny Rampton spent four hours working with both the Jazz Ensemble I and the Wind Ensemble. His impact was immediately noticeable in both groups as he made some familiar (use more air) comments as well as gave us all a better understanding of what makes the music personal. He also spoke of making every note "intentional" and to "own" our playing. He also spent time working on improvisation and specific techniques of the trumpet including half valve and plunger techniques. He recommended playing a comfortable note over and over again with a metronome playing just one quarter note per measure to really get into what it takes to start a note. He worked on the importance of all notes starting on time with the Wind Ensemble as well as thinking in unbroken phrases. Another great day!
SPHS Band Students and Alum get inspired by J@LC Orchestra at Overture Center -
Walter Blanding and Kenny Rampton visit with students after concert
On Saturday, September 23rd a group of current and alumni students and staff heard the Jazz @ Lincoln Center Orchestra at the Overture center in Madison. The band played a spectacular continuous set of a variety of music that featured many of the arranging talents of the band. Highlights included Wynton Marsalis' solos as well as Victor Goines (clarinet), Kenny Rampton (trumpet) and Walter Blanding (tenor saxophone) paying some wonderful extended feature tunes. Wisconsin native and J@LC pianist, Dan Nimmer also played extensively and Wynton kept a good dialogue going throughout the concert about Dan getting a lot of solos because his mom was at the concert.
Following the concert, Walter Blanding came out to give the Sun Prairie contingent an inspiring talk about getting involved, deeply, in the arts. He mentioned the most important part about investing time becoming proficient on your instrument was to learn more about yourself. He also said that playing music together allows us to communicate with each other at a different level - kind of through a sixth sense - that truly exists between musicians. Kenny Rampton then came out to say hello and that he is looking forward to working with our students at SPHS in the next couple weeks.
It was a great night of music!
Following the concert, Walter Blanding came out to give the Sun Prairie contingent an inspiring talk about getting involved, deeply, in the arts. He mentioned the most important part about investing time becoming proficient on your instrument was to learn more about yourself. He also said that playing music together allows us to communicate with each other at a different level - kind of through a sixth sense - that truly exists between musicians. Kenny Rampton then came out to say hello and that he is looking forward to working with our students at SPHS in the next couple weeks.
It was a great night of music!
Sun Prairie Band Students have busy fulfilling summer!
SPHS Band students were busy this summer. Members of the Sound of Sun Prairie had yet another succesful summer including the 45th anniversary of Flags of Freedom which welcomed back many alumni - a great time was had by all.
Also jazz students had the opportunity to study jazz improvisation with alums Al Piela (recently graduated from the Eastman School of Music) and Xavier Payne (current student at North Texas State University).
We had a good representation at the Birch Creek Music Academy where 9 students worked for two weeks on the art of jazz and jazz improvisation with some of our country's finest jazz musicians and educators. Sun Prairie was further represented by former SPHS Band student teacher, Ms. Lechner (head counselor) and Mr. Sveum (Lab Band Director).
Already this fall band students and their families also have worked UW-Football concessions and helped with the "Ironman" in Madison. Not much rest, but lotsa music and lotsa fun!
Also jazz students had the opportunity to study jazz improvisation with alums Al Piela (recently graduated from the Eastman School of Music) and Xavier Payne (current student at North Texas State University).
We had a good representation at the Birch Creek Music Academy where 9 students worked for two weeks on the art of jazz and jazz improvisation with some of our country's finest jazz musicians and educators. Sun Prairie was further represented by former SPHS Band student teacher, Ms. Lechner (head counselor) and Mr. Sveum (Lab Band Director).
Already this fall band students and their families also have worked UW-Football concessions and helped with the "Ironman" in Madison. Not much rest, but lotsa music and lotsa fun!
The SPHS Bands final two performances of the year were in the spirit of giving back to the Sun Prairie Community. On Memorial Day, Monday, May 29th, all Senior Band members performed at the annual Memorial Day Service held at the Veterans Memorial on South Walker Way. It was a great way to say, "Thank you for your Service" to our veterans and their families. The band played the Star Spangled Banner, America's Pride and ended with a rendition of God Bless America. Joey Rockman also performed a very heartfelt version of Taps after the folding of the flag
Our last performance was at the 2017 graduation ceremony held on Friday, June 9th in the SPHS Field House. The band contributed 3 prelude selections as well as "Pomp & Circumstance" the national anthem and a recessional. All underclass band students performed as the last student organization on campus to provide a function for the 2016-17 school year.
All in all, a very successful year. Thank you for your continuous support of your child's' involvement in music. Best of luck to the Sound of Sun Prairie on their 45th anniversary season and everyone else, don't forget to practice over the summer. Wind Ensemble I will see you in the Band room on Wednesday, August 30th 9-noon and 1:30 -4pm - work on those parts!!
Have a Great Summer Everyone!!!
Our last performance was at the 2017 graduation ceremony held on Friday, June 9th in the SPHS Field House. The band contributed 3 prelude selections as well as "Pomp & Circumstance" the national anthem and a recessional. All underclass band students performed as the last student organization on campus to provide a function for the 2016-17 school year.
All in all, a very successful year. Thank you for your continuous support of your child's' involvement in music. Best of luck to the Sound of Sun Prairie on their 45th anniversary season and everyone else, don't forget to practice over the summer. Wind Ensemble I will see you in the Band room on Wednesday, August 30th 9-noon and 1:30 -4pm - work on those parts!!
Have a Great Summer Everyone!!!
SPHS Jazz I returns from New York & Essentially Ellington
Congratulations to the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I who once again had an amazing experience in New York. The saying that it is an "experience that only hard work can buy" certainly applies here. The Sun Prairie group was chosen as one of only 15 ensembles nationwide to participate in the national finals held at Rose Hall in New York, New York.
The band represented Sun Prairie well in the competition and special honors went to Bennett LeClaire as an outstanding performer on Tenor Saxophone and Dillion Crawford as a Honorable Mention performer on Tenor Saxophone.
Thank you to parents and community for your overwhelming support of these students!
To learn more go to the Jazz I NYC 2017 homepage!
The band represented Sun Prairie well in the competition and special honors went to Bennett LeClaire as an outstanding performer on Tenor Saxophone and Dillion Crawford as a Honorable Mention performer on Tenor Saxophone.
Thank you to parents and community for your overwhelming support of these students!
To learn more go to the Jazz I NYC 2017 homepage!
Congratulations to Emma Johansson & Robert Rockman for outstanding musical achievements!!!
SPHS Junior, Emma Johansson was a winner in the Wisconsin School Music Association Student Composition Contest. Emma wrote a vocal piece, entitled "The Future". She took on this assignment as part the "Resonance" composition project at SPHS. Sun Prairie Graduate, Jon Nelson ('11) led a group of students through the music composition process, of which Emma was a part and then presented a concert in March, entirely comprised of new music. Many of the pieces were composed by SPHS students as well as those by Jon himself. Emma is thrilled to have been a part of the inaugural "Resonance" composition project.
Robert Rockman received the Exemplary Soloist Award for his recent performance at the State Solo/Ensemble festival held at UW-Whitewater on April 29, 2017. Robert played, "Evergreen" by Benjamin Finley on the Marimba. Mr. Finley composed "Evergreen" in tribute to his friend Ryan Camden who perished in an accident. Robert felt a personal connection to this piece as his uncle and godfather, Al Rockman had passed weeks before the State performance. Music and emotion coming together to heal and reach deeper meaning in our existence.
Robert Rockman received the Exemplary Soloist Award for his recent performance at the State Solo/Ensemble festival held at UW-Whitewater on April 29, 2017. Robert played, "Evergreen" by Benjamin Finley on the Marimba. Mr. Finley composed "Evergreen" in tribute to his friend Ryan Camden who perished in an accident. Robert felt a personal connection to this piece as his uncle and godfather, Al Rockman had passed weeks before the State performance. Music and emotion coming together to heal and reach deeper meaning in our existence.
How to Order Solo & Ensemble Medals
Parents may order medals earned by their sons and daughters by visiting:
http://store.wsmamusic.org/
These medals are a great way to commemorate the accomplishments of your childs' musical accomplishment at both Local and State Solo/Ensemble.
*Please note that we do not purchase these medals through the HS Band Department.
Congrats to all who did so well at solo/ensemble festival this year!
http://store.wsmamusic.org/
These medals are a great way to commemorate the accomplishments of your childs' musical accomplishment at both Local and State Solo/Ensemble.
*Please note that we do not purchase these medals through the HS Band Department.
Congrats to all who did so well at solo/ensemble festival this year!
SPHS Jazz I earns Colonial Club "Community Partner Award"
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Dear Steve (Mr. Sveum):
It is my pleasure to inform you that the Colonial Club has named you and Sun Prairie High School Jazz Band as this year’s recipient of the Community Partner Award. We so appreciate your many years of partnering with Colonial Club to perform every year at our February Day for Seniors program. Each year, our senior adults eagerly anticipate this day in February. The musicians are professional, polite and greatly talented. It’s a wonderful way for the generations to join together with their common appreciation and love of music. This award will be presented at the 2017 Annual Board Meeting & Volunteer Recognition on Thursday, May 25th at 5:30 in the Cremer Auditorium here at the Colonial Club. On behalf of all of us here at the Colonial Club, our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and the older adults we serve day in and day out, I thank you for your service to the community and support. Sincerely, Bob Power Executive Director Colonial Club, Sun Prairie |
SPHS Students learn Jazz from a Global Perspective
Jazz Vocalist and Trumpet artist Bria Skonberg and Jazz pianist Mathis Picard shared their international knowledge with Sun Prairie High School Band students the afternoon of April 27th. Skonberg, originally from a small town in British Columbia, Canada and Picard, from Grenoble, France brought home the fact that music and jazz are an international language created right here in the United States.
They began their presentation by performing Billy Strayhorn's "Take the 'A' Train" for the students of the Wind Ensemble. This was followed by a demonstration of three of the musical influences on the development of jazz in New Orleans. The Spanish Habanera, the French Polanaise and the West African polyrhythms were all demonstrated by our guests. They then added the clave and had students clap all of these together. New Orleans was truly an international melting pot of cultures that led eventually to the creation of Jazz
They then went into a discussion of the blues which led to a wonderful rendition of St. Louis Blues followed by Mathis playing a Boogie Woogie.
The duo then spent the next hour working with Jazz Ensemble I student on ways to make their music more personal and "in the moment". They gave great examples of ways to color the music. Ms. Skonberg also did some wonderful vocal coaching on "It Don't Mean a Thing".
So the woman from Canada joined the gentleman from France, to talk about the music of Spain, Haiti, France, Cuba, and Africa that was all combined in the US to create jazz. Overall another inspiring day and some fantastic music making!
They began their presentation by performing Billy Strayhorn's "Take the 'A' Train" for the students of the Wind Ensemble. This was followed by a demonstration of three of the musical influences on the development of jazz in New Orleans. The Spanish Habanera, the French Polanaise and the West African polyrhythms were all demonstrated by our guests. They then added the clave and had students clap all of these together. New Orleans was truly an international melting pot of cultures that led eventually to the creation of Jazz
They then went into a discussion of the blues which led to a wonderful rendition of St. Louis Blues followed by Mathis playing a Boogie Woogie.
The duo then spent the next hour working with Jazz Ensemble I student on ways to make their music more personal and "in the moment". They gave great examples of ways to color the music. Ms. Skonberg also did some wonderful vocal coaching on "It Don't Mean a Thing".
So the woman from Canada joined the gentleman from France, to talk about the music of Spain, Haiti, France, Cuba, and Africa that was all combined in the US to create jazz. Overall another inspiring day and some fantastic music making!
SPHS Jazz 1 - Working towards New York
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The month of April has been a busy month in preparation for the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I participation in the 2017 "Essentially Ellington" national jazz festival and competition. The band has had the opportunity to work with the Count Basie Band's pianist, Reggie Thomas, Eastman School of Music jazz trumpet professor and Clayton/Hamilton big band soloist, Clay Jenkins and Downbeat Magazine Hall of Fame Educator, Ronald Carter. Mr. Thomas focused on improvisation and lighting a fire in each other's playing. He also encouraged the band to tell more of a story and capture the drama of the music that Duke Ellington wrote. Mr. Carter really dug into the details of making the performance personal and making sure that everyone conceived of the music the same way - no articulation, dynamic or corny playing was left alone. Mr. Carter enlightened us on what consistent focused practice can do in the next couple weeks leading up to the competition in New York.
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The SPHS Jazz Ensemble has three public performances leading up to their May 10-14 time in NYC
May 1st - State Capitol Rotunda for Title I Ceremony - Noon May 1st - Liliana's Restraurant in Fitchburg 6:30-7:30pm May 7th - Send Off Concert - SPHS PAC - 7pm The Send Off Concert will be our last fundraiser and last opportunity to hear the band before their performance at Rose Hall in the Time Warner Building on Columbus Circle in New York. The band will perform on Friday, May 12 at approximately 2pm EST and will be webcast live at www.jazz.org/live Raffle tickets will be available for purchase up until the Send Off concert - this is our major remaining fundraiser. Tickets may be purchased from any band member or by contacting Steve Sveum at 834-6780. |
Jazz Combo performs at Lighthouse Senior Community Center
The SPHS Jazz Combo performed for residents of the Lighthouse senior community the 3rd week of April. It was a part of the senior community's Friday concert series. The students were well received by all and there were more than enough smiles to go around.
SPHS Students perform with US Navy Band on March 24th
At the Navy Band Performance on March 24th, ten of our talented musicians had the opportunity to join in with the Navy Band's performance of The Washington Post March.
The students who performed were Simrin Sandhu, Aditya Sharma, Emma Johanssen, Megan Rault, Ben Plesh, Paul Moniak, Andy Paulson, Cailan Sederquist, Sam Keal, and Lauren Rault.
In addition to our students performing, the concert itself had so many highlights. An awesome Horn soloist, A Barbara Streisand Medley, "The Band Concert" played along with the Disney Video of the same name as well as Chief Musician Courtney William's incredible singing of Gustav Mahler's Ich Bin Der Welt Abhanden Gekommen. It was an incredible evening of music for all in attendance!
The students who performed were Simrin Sandhu, Aditya Sharma, Emma Johanssen, Megan Rault, Ben Plesh, Paul Moniak, Andy Paulson, Cailan Sederquist, Sam Keal, and Lauren Rault.
In addition to our students performing, the concert itself had so many highlights. An awesome Horn soloist, A Barbara Streisand Medley, "The Band Concert" played along with the Disney Video of the same name as well as Chief Musician Courtney William's incredible singing of Gustav Mahler's Ich Bin Der Welt Abhanden Gekommen. It was an incredible evening of music for all in attendance!
SPHS Wind Ensemble works with David Maslanka & Scott Teeple in preparation for March Concert.
In preparation for last weeks concert, the Wind Ensemble had two wonderful musical experience. On March 9th, UW-Madison Wind Ensemble conductor, Scott Teeple shared his thoughts on the Hindemuth "March from Symphonic Metamorphosis". He delved deep into the various stylistic and rhythmic complexities of the piece and helped students approach their work in a new way.
The next day, we all traveled to UW-Stevens Point with an invitation from their Wind Ensemble director, Dr. Michael Butler to work with composer David Maslanka. Mr. Maslanka provided an inspired and passionate look into his composition, "Requiem". He added wonderful insights into his piece and really helped us all better understand the important role that music has in human existence. He made comments such as, "Musical sound is what moves my life - be present with us", "...after the grand passion of anguish you are left with a certain feeling. Be aware of that in your playing.", and "Read the music and the notes on the page but then let go of that and let the music speak from deep within. Let the feeling rise from deep within you so it can take over what you are doing." that had a profound effect on our students.
Mr. Maslankas' impact was heard a few days later at our concert and performance of "Requiem"
The next day, we all traveled to UW-Stevens Point with an invitation from their Wind Ensemble director, Dr. Michael Butler to work with composer David Maslanka. Mr. Maslanka provided an inspired and passionate look into his composition, "Requiem". He added wonderful insights into his piece and really helped us all better understand the important role that music has in human existence. He made comments such as, "Musical sound is what moves my life - be present with us", "...after the grand passion of anguish you are left with a certain feeling. Be aware of that in your playing.", and "Read the music and the notes on the page but then let go of that and let the music speak from deep within. Let the feeling rise from deep within you so it can take over what you are doing." that had a profound effect on our students.
Mr. Maslankas' impact was heard a few days later at our concert and performance of "Requiem"
SPHS Symphonic Band Tour
Sun Prairie High School Symphonic Band was at UW Eau Claire for their March Tour. We had the opportunity to sit in on the UW Eau Claire Wind Ensemble's Rehearsal. After that we had a 90 minute clinic with Dr. Stewart on Cajun Folk Songs II. That evening as a group we attended the movie "Hidden Figures." Saturday we spent a few hours at the Mall of America before heading home. The students represented the Sun Prairie Band Program and community very well.
SPHS Band Students participate in "Resonance" - Celebrating New Voices in Music
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Some SPHS band students are preparing their compositions for the "Resonance" concert to be performed this Saturday, March 4 at 7pm at Sun Prairie High School Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature the music of SPHS Band Graduate Jon Nelson ('11) and several current SPHS student compositions with SPHS student ensembles performing them. These photos are from the Monday morning rehearsals with composers Megan Rault, Jon Nelson and Emma Johansson leading their respective ensembles in their compositions. Jon has been working with the students on the compositional process since last fall and the music is really coming together for what should be an inspiring concert on Saturday night!
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24th Annual Sun Prairie / Essentially Ellington Regional Jazz Festival a success!!
Our 24th annual jazz festival may have been one of the busiest and most educational yet. The morning featured high school jazz ensemblees from around the state in clinic and concert. Meanwhile, Reggie Thomas instructed a group of Educators and Music Education students in the ways of teaching improvisation and rhythm section techniques to middle school students. A demonstration rhythm section from Cardinal Heights participated and led to a valuable session that was filmed by and experienced Wisconsin Public Television crew and will be available soon on their website.
The afternoon featured masterclasses on all instruments followed by a performance and Q & A session with the MVP Quartet featuring Bobby Watson on alto, Ray Drummond, bass; Marvin "Smitty" Smith on Drums and Donald Brown on piano. The quartet sounded great and they had a relaxed and welcoming style in the Q & A where students asked some great questions.
The evening featured festival bands and their guest artist followed by a combo set that featured each one of our guest clinicians for the day. The night ended with a blues followed immediately by a standing ovation. There were also $1500 given out in Jazz Camp scholarships to both Birch Creek and Shell Lake camps.
A great and busy day! To see some photos from the day, please visit the Sun Prairie JazzFest Page.
The afternoon featured masterclasses on all instruments followed by a performance and Q & A session with the MVP Quartet featuring Bobby Watson on alto, Ray Drummond, bass; Marvin "Smitty" Smith on Drums and Donald Brown on piano. The quartet sounded great and they had a relaxed and welcoming style in the Q & A where students asked some great questions.
The evening featured festival bands and their guest artist followed by a combo set that featured each one of our guest clinicians for the day. The night ended with a blues followed immediately by a standing ovation. There were also $1500 given out in Jazz Camp scholarships to both Birch Creek and Shell Lake camps.
A great and busy day! To see some photos from the day, please visit the Sun Prairie JazzFest Page.
Dr. Drew Whiting from UW-Oshkosh visit SPHS saxophones
SPHS bands were pleased to welcome saxophone professor Dr. Drew Whiting from UW-Oshkosh on Monday November 20th. Spending all day with students, Dr. Whiting took the time to teach all of the saxophonists a two minute warm-up which included long tones, articulation exercises, and introduced the students to full range scales. Relaying off of his warmup, Dr. Whiting mentioned that even though he has been studying the saxophone for twenty years, he still practices all of these techniques daily! Knowing that expanding our listening library is an important part of musicianship, Dr. Whiting also provided the students he saw with a lengthy list of professional saxophonists to research as well as new Vandoren reeds to test out, pencils, and luggage tags. Finally before he left, Dr. Whiting left the students with a little food for thought: We shouldn't let the instrument inhibit the music. The saxophone/instrument doesn't create musicality; we do.
It was a pleasure to have Dr. Whiting visit the SPHS bands as every student he worked with left with a smile on their face!
It was a pleasure to have Dr. Whiting visit the SPHS bands as every student he worked with left with a smile on their face!
SPHS Jazz I plays for packed house at Colonial Club
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The SPHS Jazz Ensemble I performed for a packed house at the Colonial Club this past Thursday, February 16, 2017. They played an hour long concert of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and more for the hugely appreciative audience. The concert was very interactive and both student musicians and audience alike had a great time. Many in attendance commented that this is their favorite conert of the year at the Colonial Club and by far, the biggest audience. This year there was even dancing to the sounds of the SPHS Jazz Ensemble.
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Annual WSMA Solo & Ensemble Festival
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SPHS Band students recently performed in 85 events at the WSMA District Solo/Ensemble Festival. 34 of those performances qualified to perform at the State Solo Ensemble Festival to be held at UW-Whitewater on Saturday, April 29, 2017. Students overcame their nerves to create several musical moments on Saturday. Students who wish to receive medals for their performances may order them via the www.wsmamusic.org website. Students who qualified that wish to perform at state should contact Mr. Rush so they may be registered. Students must pay a fee to perform at state. Congratualtions to all who performed!
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Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City!!
Great News! The Sun Prairie High School Wind Ensemble (our top concert band) was invited to play at Carnegie Hall in New York City along with 5 other HS Wind Ensembles from around the nation on February 12, 2018. It will be a day of workshops with some of the countries leading musicians and a 45 minute concert on the main stage of Carnegie Hall! The SPHS Wind Ensemble was also designated a "Baldwin Wallace Conservatory, High School of Distinction" which qualifies our band to receive a $5000 scholarship payable toward expenses associated with this opportunity.
For more information on this wonderful opportunity, click below:
SPHS Wind Ensemble Carnegie 2018 Info Sheet.
For more information on this wonderful opportunity, click below:
SPHS Wind Ensemble Carnegie 2018 Info Sheet.
Dr. Linda Pereksta presents the Baroque Flute to SPHS!
SPHS band students were treated to a demonstration of a Baroque Period Flute by Dr. Linda Pereksta from UW-Oshkosh last Friday. Dr. Pereksta demonstrated the unique tonal qualities of the instrument. She also mentioned that this instrument had multiple fingerings for enharmonic pitches. For example, her baroque flute has an A# and Bb key to account for just intonation - one fingering a bit higher in pitch and one a bit lower in pitch. She also talked about the lives of the musicians in the early 1700's how they used to live on the estates of the wealthy - a system of patronage. They provided music of every kind for their patron, including playing in the kings bedroom to wake him up in the morning! It was very unique and informative day!
High School Band students spread Kindness!
20 SPHS Band students worked as group leaders for the Kindness Retreat at Northside on Friday. The HS students worked as group leaders and provide positive role model for the students at Northside. A great time was had by all as members of the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble helped guide the Northside students through a series of activities intended to make students more aware of their peers.
Carl Allen, former Julliard Jazz Professor, Visit & Clinic
Carl Allen visited Sun Prairie High School Friday afternoon to help students prepare for their upcoming "Essentially Ellington" recording session. Mr. Allen is a New York based jazz drummer who also led the Juilliard Jazz Program for several years. He has played with a who's who of historic jazz musicians and brought many first hand stories to his teaching. He also encouraged students to listen to the music together and get to know each others musical tastes better. He emphasized the importance of practice quoting, "Private Practice determines Public Performance", the importance of being totally in the moment and that todays' new high performance level needs to be tomorrows low. We will never be perfect but we need to always be working to improve. He also quoted Art Blakey as saying that "jazz should wash away the dust of everyday life". Mr. Allen also did some playing and had a lot of great advice - another good musical day was had by all.
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SP Alum George Maurer Visits, Inspires, & Performs
Sun Prairie High School graduate ('84), George Maurer was in residence at SPHS January 12-14, 2017. George has composed original music for the Saint Paul City Ballet, arranged '80's hits for the Minnesota Orchestra and has sold out the Dakota Jazz Club in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area with his band. He has also arranged music for the Chiffons, played for the Bill Clinton White House and helped Eric Clapton with a few chords and been musically director for the original Broadway vocal quartet from "Jersey Boys". In addition, George has biked across the United States, west coast to east coast, raising money for cancer research.
George spoke to music students about his early influences being involved in SPHS Band and Choir and how it inspired him to continue on in music. He also chronicled his path from the Sun Prairie High School music rooms to working with some of the music industries leading personalities.
His residency was capped off by inviting two SPHS Graduates, Sam Olson ('14), bass, and Matt Allen ('11), drums, to join him and his talented vocalist, Leslie Vincent in a concert in the PAC that feature jazz standards as well as the music of Carole King, Norah Jones, and Amy Winehouse. Mr. Sveum, also a graduate of SPHS ('80), saxophone, joined the quartet on a couple numbers as well.
All in all a very musical and inspiring time was had by all.
George spoke to music students about his early influences being involved in SPHS Band and Choir and how it inspired him to continue on in music. He also chronicled his path from the Sun Prairie High School music rooms to working with some of the music industries leading personalities.
His residency was capped off by inviting two SPHS Graduates, Sam Olson ('14), bass, and Matt Allen ('11), drums, to join him and his talented vocalist, Leslie Vincent in a concert in the PAC that feature jazz standards as well as the music of Carole King, Norah Jones, and Amy Winehouse. Mr. Sveum, also a graduate of SPHS ('80), saxophone, joined the quartet on a couple numbers as well.
All in all a very musical and inspiring time was had by all.
SPHS Course Scheduling - 4 Year Plan of how to include Music Classes
SPHS Four Year Scheduling - Band
The schedule above below meets graduation requirements & minimum UW college entrance requirements. Additional coursework in math, science, and social studies may be taken in the elective section of this example schedule. Please note that taking courses in a compacted or bundled format may conflict with scheduling a year-long course such as a band class. Students may also be interested in exploring the summer options offered at Sun Prairie High School as an option to create more room in the fall/spring class schedule.
The second page includes how to schedule if you are interested in 2 Music Classes or Music & AVID.
If at any time you have questions about your schedule and how to fit music in, see your band director and guidance counselor.
The schedule above below meets graduation requirements & minimum UW college entrance requirements. Additional coursework in math, science, and social studies may be taken in the elective section of this example schedule. Please note that taking courses in a compacted or bundled format may conflict with scheduling a year-long course such as a band class. Students may also be interested in exploring the summer options offered at Sun Prairie High School as an option to create more room in the fall/spring class schedule.
The second page includes how to schedule if you are interested in 2 Music Classes or Music & AVID.
If at any time you have questions about your schedule and how to fit music in, see your band director and guidance counselor.
SPHS Wind Ensemble records for NBC15's "Sound of the Season"
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On Wednesday, November 30, the Wind Ensemble taped LeRoy Andersons' "A Christmas Festival" for NBC-15's Holiday special, "The Sounds of the Season". This one hour special will be aired on December. Show times for Sounds Of The Season this year are Dec 24 at 10pm, Dec 25 at 8am and 12:30pm. The special features school groups from around southern Wisconsin as well as WYSO. The students showed great poise in not getting rattled as the new space age gyro camera came within inches of them while playing. We hope you get a chance to enjoy it.
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SPHS Welcomes Woodwind Guest Artists!
We were fortunate to welcome David Bixler (Saxophone), Amy McCann (Clarinet), Marc Vallon (Bassoon) and Stephanie Jutt (flute) to work with our students this past Monday and Tuesday.
David Bixler, outstanding jazz saxophonist from New York, spent two hours working fundamentals of playing the saxophone as well as improvisational techniques with our students. He then spent an hour and a half working with Jazz I on creating a unique sound as an ensemble as well as techniques that deepen the ability to communicate with an audience. He focused on good use of air and being sure to make every note important, no matter what the role of the note may be. Know the architecture of the tune and play accordingly. He also asked students to practice with the metronome on the third triplet of the beat in a swing style.
David Bixler, outstanding jazz saxophonist from New York, spent two hours working fundamentals of playing the saxophone as well as improvisational techniques with our students. He then spent an hour and a half working with Jazz I on creating a unique sound as an ensemble as well as techniques that deepen the ability to communicate with an audience. He focused on good use of air and being sure to make every note important, no matter what the role of the note may be. Know the architecture of the tune and play accordingly. He also asked students to practice with the metronome on the third triplet of the beat in a swing style.
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On Tuesday, 3 members of the UW-Madison woodwind faculty joined the Wind Ensemble to work in sectionals and sit in on the rehearsal of "With Heart and Voice". they were very helpful in showing students ways of working on technically difficult passages and reinforcing fundamental techniques to get better sounds on their instruments. Amy McCann, Clarinet; Stephanie Jutt, Flute; and Marc Vallon, Bassoon; all were extremely helpful and inspiring!
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Friday - November 18th welcomes many guest to SP Bands!
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Dr Aaron Hill stopped by to work with the Wind Ensemble section on Friday. Dr. .Hill is the new Oboe professor at UW-Madison. He worked with the students on tone production, solo literature and other fundamentals of playing the instrument. He was very inspiring to those students.
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Reggie Thomas, the Northern Illinois Jazz Ensemble and special guest, Camille Thurman performed for the members of the Wind Ensemble and then spent time working with both Jazz I and Jazz II. We were also able to welcome back SPHS graduate Ryan Krueger who is a member of the NIU Jazz Ensemble. Ms. Thurman both played beautifully on the Tenor Saxophone as well as vocally on a tune entitled, "I Just found out about Love and I like it". After the their performance, SPHS students split into either sectionals with the NIU students or went into full rehearsal with Mr. Thomas. The session concluded with Mr. Thomas and Ms. Thurman performing a duet that was inspiring! There were many great moments in the 4 hours that our friends from NIU were here.
Congratulations Clara Sickels & Megan Rault!
Megan Rault will be a saxophonist in the upcoming UW-Milwaukee Music Festival Honor Band. The band is comprised of students from primarily the Milwaukee and Chicago area. The festival band will participate in workshops and rehearsals for two days culminating in a final performance at UW-Milwaukee. Students will also work with noted composer, Aaron Perrine.
Clara Sickels was chosen as an oboist for the 2017 High School Honors Band at Carnegie Hall! After a difficult review process, their Selection Board has chosen students representing 49 US states, Guam, two provinces of Canada, Australia, Chile, Germany, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Qatar, and South Korea. Students will rehearse at the famed Carnegie Hall in New York on February 2-6 with a thrilling culminating concert at the historic Carnegie Hall.
Music Convention Week - Busy, Busy!
The week of October 24-28 began with an improvisational workshop presented to jazz students interested in improvisation presented by the Caili O’Doherty Trio from New York City. The group included Caili on Piano, Caroline Davis on Saxophone and Cory Cox on Drums. They worked with students on developing a solo on “Blue Bossa” and rhythm section playing. That was followed up by a workshop with the Concert Band Red students. The concert band used the first four measure of “Russian Christmas Music” as source material to create a funk tune and then each member of the concert band played a rhythmic improvisation that they rest of the band played back to them - it was jammin’!!!!
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Later that day, professor John Climer, Wind Ensemble director from UW-Milwaukee came in to work with the Wind Ensemble. Professor Climer got into some serious detail with the SPHS Wind ensemble on LeRoy Anderson’s “Christmas Festival”. The Wind Ensemble will be doing a taping of this tune for the NBC-15 Holiday Television special, “The Sounds of the Season” to be aired over our holiday break.
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On Wednesday of that week, professor Jerry Tolson from the University of Louisville stopped by to work with rhythm section members on an F Blues and Blue Bossa. This was in preparation for his presentation and the rhythm section performance at the State Music Convention at Monona Terrace. Dr. Tolson returned early Thursday morning to work with the full band. He has written a book on jazz articulation and syllables and worked with the band to clean up some of our syllables which cleaned up the band.
On Thursday, Dr. Matt Schlomer from the Interlochen Arts Academy outside of Traverse City, Michigan worked with the Wind Ensemble on breathing and tone production. He had a very “deep” approach to music and concepts relating to conceiving of your entire body being a part of your sound and reaching down to fill your body with more air - not cutting off yourself at your diaphragm. He also asked student to perceive of their performance as being better than they are - not to limit themselves to their own concept of faults but visualize something better. He had them visualize the point of activation and to always think of themselves as the performer who creates something that previously did not exist. It was a great hour presented at the college graduate school level - wonderful!
The week ended with Megan Rault performing in the Wisconsin Honors Band at the Overture Center in Madison and the Jazz I Rhythm Section (Jon Alcantara, Jordan Apfelbeck, Michael Otto, Robert Rockman, and Jennifer Lamprech) assisting Dr. Tolson in his clinic on how to teach a jazz rhythm section. A very good week!
Ron Carter returns to Sun Prairie High School
Retired professor Ron Carter (now from Raleigh, North Carolina) returned to SPHS on Monday, November 7 to work both Jazz I and II this past Monday. Professor Carter brought his usual high energy instruction to better the SPHS jazz students as they prepared their music for the upcoming Big Band Dance on December 10 at Angell Park. He encourage student to listen and improvise. He congratulated the students on learning their notes but noticed that we still need to have each student focus on listening and transcribing jazz solos as well as having every student learn to improvise an authentic blues solo. He also encouraged all of our older student to become part of the “Teaching Force” in Sun Prairie Jazz. He asked them to get together with each other and help and play and pass on the tradition of the culture that has become Sun Prairie Jazz….with more improvisation!
Senior Band Photo orders due November 4
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5x7 - $3
8x10 - $5 Order from and give money to Mr. Sveum. checks may be made out to "Skala Photography" |
Big Band Dance Date Change - December 10, 2016
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This year's annual Sun Prairie High School Big Band Dance is moved 1 week later than it's usual date to Saturday December 10th, 2016 7pm - 10:30pm at Angell Park Pavilion.
Come join us for this great event, support students, dance, eat & have a great time. See you there! |
SPHS Jazz Alumni!
Interested in playing in the Alumni Jazz Band at the Big Band Dance?
REGISTER HERE Rehearsal 11am, Perform 9:30pm |
HS Band - October Updates in Photos!
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Youth Optimists of the Month - Simrin Sandhu & Andy Paulson!
Congrats to Andy Paulson and Simrin Sandhu whos were both name Sun Prairie Student Optimist of the month for September. Simrin is a Senior Oboe player in the Wind Ensemble and a member of the SPHS Tennis Team. Andy is a Junior Trombone player who participates in Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble I. They were both honored at a luncheon held at Buck and Honeys in September. |
2016 Wall of Success - Scott Auby
Former SPHS Band and Choral student, Scott Auby was honored on October 3 at a ceremony in the SPHS PAC. Scott graduated from SPHS in 1981. He earned a music degree at Lawrence University in Appleton and after graduating applied to Harvard Law school where he earned his law degree. He worked for the corporate law firm of Debevoise & Plimpton, LLP, in Washington DC.
The program brought back many friends and alumni to SPHS and was inspiring to the current generation of music students
Scott wrote about his music teachers at SPHS, “They taught us to pursue excellence in everything that they did,” he said. “The way they taught us to pursue passion and to be a member of a community -- those are life lessons that I’ve carried with me every day since I’ve left.”
Current band students, Mallory Keating and Ben Plesh presented Scott's brother, Gregg with a SPHS blanket and plaque commemorating Scott.
Scott passed away from brain cancer last summer.
The program brought back many friends and alumni to SPHS and was inspiring to the current generation of music students
Scott wrote about his music teachers at SPHS, “They taught us to pursue excellence in everything that they did,” he said. “The way they taught us to pursue passion and to be a member of a community -- those are life lessons that I’ve carried with me every day since I’ve left.”
Current band students, Mallory Keating and Ben Plesh presented Scott's brother, Gregg with a SPHS blanket and plaque commemorating Scott.
Scott passed away from brain cancer last summer.
Edgar Knecht Trio Clinic and Performance with SPHS Bands and Jazz
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The Edgar Knecht Trio worked with SPHS Jazz I and performed for the Concert Band on October 4. The group was highly conversational their playing and demonstrated a high level of musical communication. They based their music off of German Folk Songs and told stories through music. The group was able to reinforce musical concepts that were first taught to us by Puerto Rican trombonist, Papo Vazquez. It was wonderful to hear the international influence of Afro Cuban music as told by and played by the German Trio from Kassel, Germany.
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SPHS Jazz Combo at "Justice for a Cure"
The SPHS Jazz Combo performed at the "Justice for a Cure" fundraising event on Friday, October 7, 2016 at the Westside community Center in Sun Prairie. The group provided jazz standards to create a festive atmosphere and help raise money for cancer research. Student involved included, Jennifer Lamprech, Michael Otto, Jon Alcantara, Andy Paulson, Kyra Devlin and Paul Moniak.
The SPHS Jazz Combo performed at the "Justice for a Cure" fundraising event on Friday, October 7, 2016 at the Westside community Center in Sun Prairie. The group provided jazz standards to create a festive atmosphere and help raise money for cancer research. Student involved included, Jennifer Lamprech, Michael Otto, Jon Alcantara, Andy Paulson, Kyra Devlin and Paul Moniak.
HS Band - September Updates in Photos!
On Friday, September 9th, Jazz Rhythm section students from Cardinal Heights and the High School participated in a clinic given by Reggie Thomas and Rick Haydon.
Both gentlemen are longtime friends of the SPASD Jazz Program and also performed in the first concert sponsored by the Sun Prairie Arts Alliance. The Concert entitled, "Jazz @ Home with Reggie and Mardra Thomas" featured both pop and jazz tunes with SPHS Band Director Steve Sveum sitting in on a couple tunes.
Also - big thanks to the students who raised $500 for SPHS Jazz by working at the Madison Ironman. You rock!
Both gentlemen are longtime friends of the SPASD Jazz Program and also performed in the first concert sponsored by the Sun Prairie Arts Alliance. The Concert entitled, "Jazz @ Home with Reggie and Mardra Thomas" featured both pop and jazz tunes with SPHS Band Director Steve Sveum sitting in on a couple tunes.
Also - big thanks to the students who raised $500 for SPHS Jazz by working at the Madison Ironman. You rock!
SPHS Seniors Perform at Memorial Day Service
A Sincere thank you to our seniors and their families who took time off from their extended Memorial Day to perform for our local veterans and their families. As always, the performance was greatly appreciated by our Veterans who have given so much to us.
Thank you as well to members of the Sound of Sun Prairie and their families as well as the students of both Patrick Marsh and Prairie View marching bands for contributing to this worthy community event.
Thank you as well to members of the Sound of Sun Prairie and their families as well as the students of both Patrick Marsh and Prairie View marching bands for contributing to this worthy community event.
Congrats to students on some outstanding performances!
Congratulations to the following students for being recognized as "Exemplary Soloists" at this years' state Solo/Ensemble Festival held on the campus of UW-Whitewater on April 30, 2016.
Kayla Nelson - Baritone Saxophone
Garrett Risch - Trumpet
Alex Rockman - Flute
Joseph Rockman - Trumpet
Robert Rockman - Mallet Percussion
Sebastian Roman - Alto Saxophone
Congratulations as well to the following Jazz Ensemble I students who were recognized for their outstanding performances at the 21st Annual "Essentially Ellington" competition held in Rose Hall in New York City on May 6-7, 2016.
Outstanding Performances:
Sydney Challoner - Trumpet
Sebastian Roman - Alto Saxophone
Sebastian Roman - Soprano Saxophone
Honorable Mention:
Kayla Nelson - Baritone Saxophone
Robert Rockman - Banjo
Congratulations to all students who worked very hard and performed so well at the above events!
Kayla Nelson - Baritone Saxophone
Garrett Risch - Trumpet
Alex Rockman - Flute
Joseph Rockman - Trumpet
Robert Rockman - Mallet Percussion
Sebastian Roman - Alto Saxophone
Congratulations as well to the following Jazz Ensemble I students who were recognized for their outstanding performances at the 21st Annual "Essentially Ellington" competition held in Rose Hall in New York City on May 6-7, 2016.
Outstanding Performances:
Sydney Challoner - Trumpet
Sebastian Roman - Alto Saxophone
Sebastian Roman - Soprano Saxophone
Honorable Mention:
Kayla Nelson - Baritone Saxophone
Robert Rockman - Banjo
Congratulations to all students who worked very hard and performed so well at the above events!
Congrats Jazz I on a great 2016 Essentially Ellington!!
Go to our Jazz I NYC 2016 Homepage to watch their performance and learn more about their experience.
Composer & Educator Jack Stamp Visits SPHS - May 3, 2016
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Composer/Conductor Jack Stamp spent a half day with SPHS Band students working to help prepare them for their final 2016-17 concert. Dr. Stamp spent time discussing the compositional methods of Aaron Copland with the wind ensemble. He said that Copland was one of the first to write melodic timpani parts and used the "Outdoor Overture" and "Fanfare for the Common Man" as examples. He mentioned that composers don't think 1st, 2nd and 3rd parts as much as they think "choirs" and "voices". This leads to a different kind of listening within the band.
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His work with the Symphonic Band centered on the Holst First Suite in Eb. He said that he knew this piece even better than that of his own compositions. Finally, he worked with the Concert Band on his own composition entitled, "Cenotaph". He had written Cenotaph 24 years ago but found that he had written a wrong note in the timpani part and made the correction for the first time in his career. He also emphasized matching style and length of notes throughout. He also cited how he created tension by use of hemiola and dissonance in "Cenotaph".
Congrats State Solo & Ensemble Students! April 30, 2016
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Congratulations to all SPHS Band students who earned the opportunity to participate in the WSMA State Solo and Ensemble Festival held on the campus of UW-Whitewater on Saturday, April 29, 2016. Of the 39 events entered, 28 received a rating of "1" for their performance. Special congratulations go out to the following students for receiving the exemplary soloist award as the best performers in their site at state. Students who earned this special recognition were:
Brie Lentz, Kayla Nelson, Garrett Risch, Alex Rockman, Joseph Rockman, Robert Rockman, and Sebastian Roman |
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SPHS Jazz I helps raise money for the "Sunshine Place"
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The Sun Prairie High School Jazz Ensemble I was the featured entertainment at the "Sunshine Ball" held at the Oaks Golf Course and Country Club on Friday, April 29, 2016. The Sunshine Ball is one of the major fundraisers for the Sunshine Place of Sun Prairie which helps thousands of Sun Prairie ares residents in need. Last year the band helped raise close to $30,000 in support of the Sunshine Place.
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April 2016 - Thanks to all of our guests that stopped by!
In the Past week (April 15-22), SPHS Band students have enjoyed clinics by Dan Grobois, UW-Madison French Horn Professor; Russ Nolan - New York Jazz Saxophonist; Reggie Thomas - Professor of Jazz at NIU and Pianist with the Count Basie Band; and the Wingra Woodwind Quintet from UW-Madison. It has been a great week of musical enrichment for all in the SPHS Band Department!
SPHS Wind Ensemble and Concert Band successful at UW-Milwaukee
The High School Wind Ensemble and Concert Band recently returned from a successful day of clinics and rehearsals at UW- Milwaukee's Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts and the Bader Concert Hall. Trumpet professor, Kevin Hartman worked with each band's brass section, Flute professor Jennifer Clippert worked with each groups' Woodwind section and Tom Wetzel worked with each percussion section. Alternately, each band received a workshop with Dr. John Climer, Director of Bands and the UW-Milwaukee Wind Ensemble.
Each group made good progress in their musicality throughout the day. The band finished the min-tour with a stop at the Mayfair Mall food court. The bands represented Sun Prairie in a very positive way throughout the day. Congrats to our band students on a successful day of music education.
Each group made good progress in their musicality throughout the day. The band finished the min-tour with a stop at the Mayfair Mall food court. The bands represented Sun Prairie in a very positive way throughout the day. Congrats to our band students on a successful day of music education.
Kenny Rampton, J@LC Trumpet Clinician comes to Sun Prairie!
New York jazz trumpet artist and member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Kenny Rampton worked with the SPHS Jazz Ensemble I for 4 and a half hours on April 7th to prepare the band for the upcoming Essentially Ellington competition and festival. He talked about breathing ("The Science of Breath" by Yogi Ramacharaka), tuning, life, balance, relaxing, listening and the universe. He also mentioned that it is very important to practice difficult passages slowly at first, with all the nuances, and then gradually speed up.
He "got full" when saying how he is inspired by music students from across the country at the "Essentially Ellington" festival. He always loves the way that students cheer for each other and respect the amount of work and effort it takes to be a finalist and to perform on the Rose Hall stage in New York. He made a comment that our politicians could learn a few things from the hard working high school students who are selected to participate in the national competition. He told the band they have some work to do before they play in New York, but if they do, well, he won't make any predictions...
Learn more about Jazz I's adventure as they head to New York City HERE
He "got full" when saying how he is inspired by music students from across the country at the "Essentially Ellington" festival. He always loves the way that students cheer for each other and respect the amount of work and effort it takes to be a finalist and to perform on the Rose Hall stage in New York. He made a comment that our politicians could learn a few things from the hard working high school students who are selected to participate in the national competition. He told the band they have some work to do before they play in New York, but if they do, well, he won't make any predictions...
Learn more about Jazz I's adventure as they head to New York City HERE
Madison Symphony Conductor, John DeMain, visits Sun Prairie.
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On March 10, the conductor and music director of the Madison Symphony, maestro John DeMain stopped by to give some musical insight to over 150 music students at Sun Prairie High School. Maestro DeMain covered the history of his musical career from growing up in a steel town in Pennsylvania, to getting early conducting experience from the Catholic High School Band Director, performing as a child prodigy pianist then attending Juilliard, accompanying vocalist and eventually conducting just about everything while in school in New York. He emphasized making connections and networking as well as the hard work it takes to be a musician. He told students that none of the members of the Madison Symphony were full time Symphony musicians and that all had another full time job. As a result, he said the musicians love playing music together which leads to special performances by the Orchestra. He also compared the state sponsored arts in Europe vs the largely unsupported arts in the United States. He then took questions from students and left to an extended ovation given to him by his audience.
Sun Prairie Jazz Fest 2016 - Another Great Day of Music Education!!!
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The SP Band Boosters and Jazz @ Lincoln Center, in collaboration with several sponsors produced another successful "Sun Prairie Jazz and Regional "Essentially Ellington" festival on February 20, 2016. 13 high school jazz ensembles from around the state interacted with 11 great jazz musician/educators from around the country. The morning featured performances by students bands who were given an hour long clinic with a team of three clinicians. There was a lunchtime jam session for students, then clinics and rehearsals in the afternoon. Adult jazz educators were treated to a 3 hour session on "How to teach Improvisation through the keyboard" and in the afternoon, Jazz at Lincoln Center Vice President Todd Stoll spoke with educators about the social significance of jazz and Duke Ellington.
The day was capped by an incredible concert that featured many of the bands as well as a set by all of our clinicians. For a more detailed look at the day visit http://www.spbb.org/sun-prairie-jazzfest.html |
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Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra to the SPHS Performing Arts Center Stage
Sun Prairie HS Band students as well as hundreds of area elementary students enjoyed a performance by the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Andrew Sewell. The Orchestra performed selections by Bernstein, Turina, Sarasate, Piazolla and Moncayo in a program that emphasized the latin side of classical music. As an extra bonus, the WCO invited interested high school students to attend the rehearsal the night before - a rare look at how professionals rehearse! The Chamber Orchestra was here as part of their outreach program. The Orchestra included SPHS band alum, Cindy Terhune in the percussion section.
Sun Prairie Jazz I makes Essentially Ellington Finals for 10th Time!
Congratulations to SPHS Jazz I members who have been selected to participate in the "Essentially Ellington" national jazz festival and competition to be held on May 5-7, 2016 at the "House of Swing" - Rose Hall in the Time Warner Building on Columbus Circle in New York City. Band are selected through a blind audition process from 5 regions throughout the United States and Canada.
This marks the 10th time the band has been selected as a national finalist in the 21 year history of the festival. Sun Prairie Jazz Ensembles' have place as high as 3rd (3 times) in this "super-bowl" of jazz festivals.
We wish them the best of luck and let the fundraising (and practicing!) begin.
Congratulations to SPHS Jazz I members who have been selected to participate in the "Essentially Ellington" national jazz festival and competition to be held on May 5-7, 2016 at the "House of Swing" - Rose Hall in the Time Warner Building on Columbus Circle in New York City. Band are selected through a blind audition process from 5 regions throughout the United States and Canada.
This marks the 10th time the band has been selected as a national finalist in the 21 year history of the festival. Sun Prairie Jazz Ensembles' have place as high as 3rd (3 times) in this "super-bowl" of jazz festivals.
We wish them the best of luck and let the fundraising (and practicing!) begin.
Jazz Students attend Jazz Battle Royale - Count Basie & Jazz at Lincoln Center
Members of all three high school jazz ensembles recently attend a joint concert by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and the Count Basie Orchestra at Orchestra Hall in Chicago. After the concert, J@LC trombone player, Chris Crenshaw spoke with students on improvisation, jazz, composition and life.
High School Band Students Pay it Forward at the Northside Elementary "Kindness Retreat"
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These special, day-long retreats for students help to build a more caring school community by engaging students in activities that demonstrate the powerful value of kindness and the painful effects of bullying.
The Kindness Retreats are presented by Youth Frontiers, Inc., a Minneapolis-based nonprofit organization. The high-energy session for 4th and/or 5th graders teaches them how to be a hero by treating others with kindness and challenges them to reduce bullying in their school. |
SPHS Percussionist Robert Rockman - Winner of Bolz / Final Forte Young Artist Concerto Competition
The Final Forte 2016 finalists were selected from several young Wisconsin artists who competed in the Bolz Young Artist Competition’s two preliminary rounds. The event gave these four artists the chance to perform a movement from a concerto with the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
The Final Forte is a free concert broadcast live on Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) and rebroadcast on Wisconsin Public Television (WPT). This competition has captured an enormous following and numerous honors, including an Emmy nomination, First Place in the “Special Interest” category from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association in 2007, and fifth most-watched program in the February 2007 Nielsen ratings. The 2008 WPT and WPR broadcasts reached more than 60,000 viewers and listeners in the Madison market alone and the 2009 broadcasts reached an estimated 200,000 statewide.
The Final Forte is a free concert broadcast live on Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) and rebroadcast on Wisconsin Public Television (WPT). This competition has captured an enormous following and numerous honors, including an Emmy nomination, First Place in the “Special Interest” category from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association in 2007, and fifth most-watched program in the February 2007 Nielsen ratings. The 2008 WPT and WPR broadcasts reached more than 60,000 viewers and listeners in the Madison market alone and the 2009 broadcasts reached an estimated 200,000 statewide.
Robert Rockman, marimba
Fantasy on Japanese Woodprints, Op. 211 (Alan Hovhaness)
Age: 16
Homeschool – Sun Prairie
Learn more about Robert
Robert Rockman, 16, is a homeschooled junior. His love of percussion instruments began before he could walk and since fifth grade, he has studied percussion at the Terhune Music Studio in Sun Prairie. He is also part of the percussion sections in the Wind Ensemble at Sun Prairie High School and the Winds of Wisconsin. In addition, Robert studies voice and classical guitar and teaches percussion and guitar lessons. He has participated in the state level WSMA solo and ensemble festivals every year since sixth grade and was named one of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s 2015 Stars of Tomorrow. Robert is very involved in theater with First Wing Family Theatre and Sun Prairie Civic Theatre and dances in jazz, tap, ballet, modern, and lyrical styles at Studio 3-D in Deerfield. Robert lives in Sun Prairie with his parents, his younger sister, and his triplet brother and sister. In his spare time, he enjoys racquetball, playing cards and games with his family and friends, and throwing a Frisbee for his dog, Breagh.
Fantasy on Japanese Woodprints, Op. 211 (Alan Hovhaness)
Age: 16
Homeschool – Sun Prairie
Learn more about Robert
Robert Rockman, 16, is a homeschooled junior. His love of percussion instruments began before he could walk and since fifth grade, he has studied percussion at the Terhune Music Studio in Sun Prairie. He is also part of the percussion sections in the Wind Ensemble at Sun Prairie High School and the Winds of Wisconsin. In addition, Robert studies voice and classical guitar and teaches percussion and guitar lessons. He has participated in the state level WSMA solo and ensemble festivals every year since sixth grade and was named one of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s 2015 Stars of Tomorrow. Robert is very involved in theater with First Wing Family Theatre and Sun Prairie Civic Theatre and dances in jazz, tap, ballet, modern, and lyrical styles at Studio 3-D in Deerfield. Robert lives in Sun Prairie with his parents, his younger sister, and his triplet brother and sister. In his spare time, he enjoys racquetball, playing cards and games with his family and friends, and throwing a Frisbee for his dog, Breagh.
Students Selected to UW-Milwaukee Festival Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Congratualtions to Aczareyen Lyles (flute) and Clara Sickels (oboe) who were both chosen to be members of the UW-Milwuakee Music Festival Symphonic Wind Ensemble for the Milwaukee Music Festival held on January 29 and 30, 2016. this very selective group was made up of students from around Wisconsin and the Chicago area suburbs. Students worked under the guidance of UW-M Wind Ensemble conductor John Climer as well as composer John Mackey. The Concert featured many of Mackeys' works and the final performance was held in Zelazo Center for the Performing Arts in Bader Concert Hall.
Congratulations to all who performed at district Solo/Ensemble
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Congatulations to all students who performed at the District Solo/Ensemble Festival this past weekend, February 13, 2016 at Prairie View Middle School. Of the 91 events entered by the high school band, 45 of the received a *1 - the highest rating possible at the festival. The 1* rating qualifies students to participate in the State level Solo/Ensemble Festival which will be held on the Campus of the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater on Saturday, April 30, 2016.
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Students may register via their band director in a few weeks. Several students also received outstanding performance certificates. Congrats to all who played!!
Congrats - 4 students selected for Wisconsin State Honors Project
Congratulations to the following students who auditioned into the 2015 Wisconsin State Honors Project Ensembles. More information about the experience can be found HERE.
Gabrielle Lentz, Flute - Band
Michael Otto, Bass - Alternate Band/Orchestra
Garrett Risch, Trumpet - Jazz
Molly Sheahan, Clarinet - Orchestra
2015 October High School State Honors Concerts Performances:
Gabrielle Lentz, Flute - Band
Michael Otto, Bass - Alternate Band/Orchestra
Garrett Risch, Trumpet - Jazz
Molly Sheahan, Clarinet - Orchestra
2015 October High School State Honors Concerts Performances:
- Honors Band and Orchestra (Overture Hall, Madison) Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 4:30 pm
- Honors Jazz Ensemble (Monona Terrace, Madison) Friday, October 30, 2015 at 11:30 am
About Sun Prairie High School Bands:
Students in the Sun Prairie High School Band program participate in one of three concert bands:
Student may opt to participate in any portion of our extra-curricular program which include:
All students in the Sun Prairie Band program receive weekly small group instruction from a district band staff member. In addition, a number of students receive additional, instrument specific, private instruction from one of a number of talented musicians from our area.
All band students also participate in a composer in residence program that features a guest composer working with all of the concert bands. Past composers include: Charles Rochester Young, Jim Bonney, Sam Hazo, Richard Saucedo, Frank Ticheli, Jonathan Newman, Michael Daugherty, Michael Markowski, Wataru Hokoyama, Kim Archer, and David Maslanka.
The Wind Ensemble has been invited to perform at both the Wisconsin WMEA and WNBA convention, and regional MENC conventions in Minneapolis and Cincinnati and the National MENC, as well as collaborated with the Wind Ensembles of UW-Madison, UW-Stevens Point, and Carroll University in preparation of new music and concert performance.
The Jazz Ensemble I has performed at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic with Wynton Marsalis and the WMEA convention with Clark Terry. The jazz ensemble has been a 9 time national finalist in the “Essentially Ellington” festival, placing 3rd three times.
The Sound of Sun Prairie has won its’ circuit Championship honors many times in the Mid America Competing Band Directors Association summer circuit.
- Concert Band
- Symphonic Band
- Wind Ensemble
Student may opt to participate in any portion of our extra-curricular program which include:
- 3 Jazz Ensembles
- 2 Jazz Combos
- Epoch Sound - Pep Band
- Full orchestra
- Pit orchestra
- Many chamber groups
- Sound of Sun Prairie - summer competitive marching band
All students in the Sun Prairie Band program receive weekly small group instruction from a district band staff member. In addition, a number of students receive additional, instrument specific, private instruction from one of a number of talented musicians from our area.
All band students also participate in a composer in residence program that features a guest composer working with all of the concert bands. Past composers include: Charles Rochester Young, Jim Bonney, Sam Hazo, Richard Saucedo, Frank Ticheli, Jonathan Newman, Michael Daugherty, Michael Markowski, Wataru Hokoyama, Kim Archer, and David Maslanka.
The Wind Ensemble has been invited to perform at both the Wisconsin WMEA and WNBA convention, and regional MENC conventions in Minneapolis and Cincinnati and the National MENC, as well as collaborated with the Wind Ensembles of UW-Madison, UW-Stevens Point, and Carroll University in preparation of new music and concert performance.
The Jazz Ensemble I has performed at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic with Wynton Marsalis and the WMEA convention with Clark Terry. The jazz ensemble has been a 9 time national finalist in the “Essentially Ellington” festival, placing 3rd three times.
The Sound of Sun Prairie has won its’ circuit Championship honors many times in the Mid America Competing Band Directors Association summer circuit.