CULLMAN, Ala. – Thursday night was a big night for the Cullman High School Band program as the concert and symphonic bands performed to a live, socially–distanced crowd. The concert had a dual purpose as the performances were also being recorded for the program’s 2021 Music Performance Assessment (MPA) by the Alabama Music Educators Association.
In a typical school year, the two talented groups travel to perform in front of the judges, but this year, nothing has been typical. Cullman High School Director of Bands Christopher Smith said he saw an opportunity to make up for not being able to perform in front of a live crowd at last year’s annual Christmas program.
He told those in attendance and those joining virtually, “Normally we travel, usually to The University of North Alabama, for the MPA, but this year they decided to make the event a virtual event. We couldn’t stand the idea of not playing in front of a live audience again.”
Thursday night’s live concert was the solution.
Each band performed three pieces of music with varying styles, as required for the assessment. The concert band, under the direction of Doug Teuscher, performed first. The ensemble selected “Cahaba River March” by Robert L. Lee, “In this Quiet Place” by Robert Sheldon and “Ancient Conquest” by Jay Coles.
The symphonic band followed with a lively march, “March Grandioso,” by Roland F. Seitz and arranged by Andrew Glover, followed by “Appalachian Morning” by Robert Sheldon and “Awakening Hills” by Richard Saucedo.
Both performances were livestreamed and recorded. The recordings will be sent for assessment on a variety of principal items including tone, intonation, technique, rhythm, balance, musicianship and stage presence. The scores will be judged on a scale from 1, being superior, to 4, being fair. The Cullman High School Symphonic Band is hoping to receive all superior ratings for the 28th year in a row.
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The Cullman High School Concert and Symphonic bands performed live Thursday night at the school. (Cullman High School Bands)
