April 5, 2017
By Kelli Gile, WVUSD Office of Community Resources
WALNUT,CA--Over 150 elementary musicians will take the stage tonight to perform with their Walnut High Band Buddies mentors.
The performance is the culmination of the outreach program available to local 5th grade Walnut Valley USD students.
During four weekly rehearsals, about 50 members of the Blue Thunder Marching Band sit side-by-side with the young artists.
“It’s wonderful to see their smiles and growth throughout the program,” said sophomore alto sax player Angela Tzab.
“They are so passionate about music and have improved a lot.”
“I’ve been looking forward to coming every week,” said flutist Annabelle Lu from Vejar Elementary.
The students have been working hard learning the Bleacher Boogie and Circle of Life songs.
“I feel like I’ve been getting better because the high schoolers taught me new notes and rhythm,” added 5th grader Nina Shen.
Members received their official Band Buddies t-shirt during the final rehearsal on April 4.
“It’s a great program!” added senior McKenzie Swift-Ramirez who has been in Band Buddies since her freshman year.
“I think they’ll look forward to high school band after this experience.”
The musicians will perform during the “Salute to the Classics” spring band concert that kicks off on April 5 at 7 p.m. in the Walnut High Performing Arts Center located at 400 N. Pierre Road.
Tickets are available at: https://www.walnuthigharts.com/buy-tickets
Band director Corey Wicks will conduct the ensemble during the concert.
“We want the students to get a taste of high school band so that they continue to be excited about band in middle school and beyond,” he said.
Shown:
Walnut High School students are mentoring local 5th graders through the Band Buddies program.