Murrieta Valley Band Woos Audience With Valentine's Concert

Their dedication began long before the first note of “Dedications, A Valentine Concert,” was played. Band members at Murrieta Valley High School go to class, practice after school and are expected to practice on their own as well. Their dedication to music was apparent throughout a Valentine's Concert held Saturday night.

As audience members entered the foyer, there were red colored lights and paper hearts with dedications from band members. In the theater, the ambience was enhanced by old-time sweetheart melodies like “Jealous Lover” and “Stand By Me.”

There were many there to support the band at this first concert of the season. Audience members attended for many reasons. Former band member, Danny Ayalde, attended because he was curious about the new band director and to support his friends, including his girlfriend.

Anna Ogawa, a Thompson Middle School band mom, said,“I’m looking for the quality to expect next year when my son is a freshman.”

As band director, Neil Anderson, lifted his baton, the students prepared. The baton dropped and Symphonic Band began with “Encanto,” by Robert W. Smith. They ended their portion of the concert with “American River Songs,” which was dedicated to a simpler time. At one point in the piece, the band took the audience to a time when people gathered in parks and town centers to listen to music being played in the bandstands.

Wind Symphony began with “Windsprints” and “Hymn to a Blue Hour,” by John Mackey, which made its West Coast premier at this concert. “Ride” sounded like they were speeding down a country road in a convertible with the wind blowing in their faces. The last piece of the evening, “Pacem,” was dedicated to the realization of personal and universal peace.

After the concert, Ogawa said she was very impressed with the complexity of the music and excited to see what next year brings when her son is part of this band.

Principal Renate Jefferson attended and enjoyed watching the students

"Each piece was able to stand alone and the students were emotionally reaching each piece," Jefferson said.

Amy Mack, friend of the band director, was also impressed.

"Bands don’t usually sound this good in February," Mack said. "They are truly in good shape."

The audience came expecting a quality concert and was not disappointed at this first concert of the season.