D140 Community Honors Retiring Band Director at Spring Concert

On Wednesday, April 29, the combined KSD 140 Concert and Symphonic Bands delivered a memorable tribute during their Spring Concert, premiering an original composition in honor of Mr. Michael Szczasny’s 18-year career as a District 140 band director.

Commissioned by the Band Parents Association, the piece “Dwa Jako Jeden (Two in One)” was composed by saxophonist and music educator Dr. Michael Pendowski of Auburn University. Dr. Pendowski and Mr. Szczasny met at DePaul University, where they performed together in several rock and R&B bands.

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Adding to the evening’s significance, retired band director and childhood friend Mr. Mark Corey joined the performance as a guest jazz trombone soloist.

The concert drew a packed audience of D140 families, friends, and band alums. Among those in attendance was Mr. Szczasny’s own junior high band director, Don Miller of Blue Island School District 130, making the evening especially meaningful.

Congratulations to Mr. Szczasny, and best wishes on his retirement