Aggie band performs spring concert

HAMILTON — The Hamilton Middle School and High School Band gave their annual spring concert last Tuesday, May 16.  
The program consisted of three groups: the sixth grade band, the seventh and eighth grade band and the high school band,  and they did not disappoint.
The evening was a tribute to great composers of concert band music, and the well-rehearsed ensembles gave their audience a night of entertainment and culture.  
Each group took their turn on stage in the auditorium at Bevill State Community College and showcased their talent and abilities.
“All of the groups sounded polished and performed very musically, and we are so proud of these kids performing such a heavy program…and pulling it off in such an amazing way,” said  Jack Rudisell, the school’s band director.
“It was a fantastic concert. I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
The performance was elevated by the presence of numerous guest conductors.
Among the list of conductors, aside from Rudisell, were University of North Alabama Director of Bands Dr. Lloyd Jones, University of Alabama at Birmingham Director of Bands Dr. Sean Murray, retired band directors Damon McAllister and Andy Vogt, who also volunteer with the band and Composer Jon Bubbett, who wrote one of the selections for the concert that evening.  
“This is some serious business. Multiple college band directors, a composer coming in to conduct his own music, retired guys wanting to come to just one more concert so they can work with our students--it was incredible. But they didn’t just come to the concert; they came to the school and worked with the kids over the course of several days…we are very grateful that these educators would give their time and energy to the Hamilton Band program,” said Rudisell.  
Also in attendance was Marion County Schools Superintendent Ann West.   
“The Hamilton High School Band put on a very impressive show!  Actually, all three bands…sixth grade, middle school and high school…sounded amazing,” West said about the performance.  
“These young musicians have dedicated their time and effort, and it was apparent that they have learned how to play their instruments very well.”
Band seems to be very much alive in Hamilton, as indicated through an announcement about the schedule for the upcoming school year.
Students in the middle school will no longer have to choose between band and P.E., which will give more students the chance to join the band.  
“We’ll hold ‘try-outs’ in August, during school, and find the instrument that suits the students,” said Rudisell.
“There will be representatives from music instrument companies on hand to assist, as well as provide instruments on an affordable rent-to-own program.  It is my hope that we have a large band program in Hamilton again. Band is for everyone, and it gives students so much.”
Students interested in joining the band may contact Rudisell at jrudisell.hhs@mcbe.net for information on joining the band.