Little Bang Town brings the music
The North Gem music students put on an amazing concert last week, playing a huge range of songs.
Last week’s school closure - and the ensuing uncertainty about the use of the building - meant that the school’s “Little Bang Town” year end music concert was rescheduled to the outdoor stage the following day.
The outdoor venue certainly had a lot of advantages, as it provided a sunny expanse to stretch out, lean back, and let the littlest kids run loose.
Being May in Idaho, however, it also provided the inevitable afternoon wind!
While a little chillier than might be ideal, the wind stayed quiet enough to hear the music over, and that’s what really matters in the long run.
This year’s group gave a great performance, with a heavy nod to much loved songs of the 80s (and multiple keyboards to bring them to life!), as well as a range of other songs selected by the performers.
I noted it last year, but I’ll say it again – the method of getting kids involved in music used by Hailey Hatch at North Gem (along with the many family members and volunteers who work with the students) is unbeatable as far as giving students a reason to take interest and ownership in making music a part of their lives.
The setup is essentially the “School of Rock” formula, where the students work with Hatch to come up with a set list and then explore a range of songs that they are interested in and learn the necessary parts to bring them to the stage.
The students all had a chance to headline a song, if they wanted, and to introduce and explain the reasoning behind their choices. As a result, there was a really entertaining mix of voices, styles, and genres on display. From the crooning of “Fly Me to the Moon” or the soulful “Have you Ever Seen the Rain” to the country stylings of “Travelin’ Soldier” or the late 80s goth heartmelt of “Pictures of You” it was an eclectic concert.
Students involved were Taylor Hirsbrunner, Anna Rose, Jaxyn Welker, John Roberts, Dally Frandsen, Indyana Hatch, Myken Rindlisbaker, Kymberli Jensen, and Jack Curtis.
Once again, it was a great day spent outdoors in Bancroft listening to some great music put on by talented kids!
