Four Groups Perform At Annual Dinner Concert

The Wills Point High School Band presented the Tenth Annual Dinner Concert, entitled "An Evening of Music." More than 450 attended the event that included a buffet meal, and music from four different bands or ensembles.

Chalon Ragsdale, from the University of Arkansas, was the guest soloist. Ragsdale is currently the Director of Percussion Studies at the University of Arkansas, and since 1975 has served as Director of the Marching Band, Director of the Concert Band, and Conductor of the Symphonic Band. Ragsdale performed on the marimbas, including solos with each ensemble.

One of the highlights of the evening was the "Garbage Can Ensemble." Eight student percussionists performed "Stinkin Garbage," on metal trashcans.

During the meal, the Jazz Band, directed by Kim Manuel, performed eight selections from various composers.

The Jazz Band was followed by the Percussion Ensemble and the Concert Band, directed by Mike Bartley. The Symphonic Band concluded the evening with four selections, conducted by John Young.

"We are so proud of our band students and the accomplishments that they make every year," Young said after the concert. "I believe that this year was one of the most significant, for we had another trip to San Antonio for the UIL State Marching Contest and record numbers of students making the All Region Band. We also had tremendous success with students qualifying for the UIL State Solo and Ensembles in San Marcos, and the ninth UIL Sweepstakes Award in Concert and Sight Reading.

"To end this with the Dinner Concert that was so musical and fun was a great culmination for the year," Young continued. "I appreciate the strong support that our administration and board of trustees give to us and our students.

"We just want our community to be proud of our band program and I know that they are."