Bea Coker
reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com
The melodious talents of Suwannee County's students recently took center stage at the esteemed North Florida Honor Band (NFHB) concert, where they showcased their musical prowess alongside the region's top young musicians. Selected from a pool of exceptional band members across North Central Florida, these students captivated audiences with their dedication, skill and passion for music.
The NFHB, featuring 56 middle school and 60 high school students from counties including Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Gilchrist, Suwannee and Union, serves as a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of budding musicians. Guided by the expertise of Directors Robert Phillips, Clayton McPeak and Bill McClendon, students from Suwannee Middle, Suwannee High and Branford High Schools embarked on a musical journey culminating in a memorable performance in the Union County High School auditorium on Friday, Feb. 2.
Suwannee High School proudly boasted four talented musicians among the NFHB ensemble. Lillie Woods and Marcia Cortes-Wilkes showcased their flute expertise, while Helen Benett mesmerized with her clarinet skills and Benson Nissley impressed on the French horn. Branford High School's Aiden Lane captured the audience with his saxophone skills. Under the guidance of clinician Ted Shistle, these students delivered captivating renditions of compositions including "Juba Dance," "Scherzo Fantastique Excerpts," "Lux Aurumque" and "In the Great Hall of the Asgard," leaving audiences spellbound with their impeccable performances.
Meanwhile, Suwanee Middle School student Joshua Cabrer-Melgar added to the magic by playing the xylophone alongside, 55 other talented members. Under the direction of clinician Carolyn Deck, these students delivered enchanting renditions of compositions such as "Colliding Vision," "When Summer’s In The Meadow," "Aliens Among Us," "Zero To Sixty," "The Hoofbeat" and "Prelude and Firestorm." Each piece showcased the students' technical proficiency and emotive expression, captivating listeners with their musical artistry.
The participation of Suwannee County's students in the NFHB not only highlights their exceptional musical abilities, but also underscores their dedication to excellence and their passion for the arts. Through their participation in this prestigious event, these talented young musicians have demonstrated the profound impact music makes in uniting and inspiring communities.
For those interested in learning more about the NFHB, additional information can be obtained by visiting their website at www.sites.google.com/a/union.k12.fl.us/north-florida-honor-band/home.