A message from the Hot Springs Concert Band...The Hot Springs Concert Band presented its annual Spring Concert on Sunday, April 19, at the Woodlands Auditorium in Hot Springs Village. From its opening number, Marriage of Figaro Overture, to its finale, Can-Can, the band gave its audience a variety of music providing something for everybody and everything for many. The band's perennial sponsor for this concert, the Kiwanis Club of Hot Springs Village, didn't disappoint either. Serving delicious ice cream and toppings prior to the concert provided the perfect prelude to an afternoon of wonderful music highlighted by Dr. Mary Chung, Associate Professor of Music at Ouachita Baptist University. Her performance of Concertante for Piano and Band and her moving encore that followed were nothing short of amazing. Her prolific career as an international performer, mentor, and educator are rooted deeply in not only her love for music but equally in her love for people and especially in sharing her gift of music with others. Those of us at the Woodlands that afternoon were fortunate recipients of a presence and performance she has shared on the world stage. In ordinary terms, this extraordinary lady "brought the house down." The Hot Springs Concert Band sponsors a scholarship each year for a high school senior who has played with the band during the school season. Band board member Sotonya Gordey presented this year's $500 scholarship to Eli McDowell, a Mount Ida High School senior. Eli's plans are to continue his study of music and agri-business this fall at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Eli is emblematic of the importance of younger generations to the quality and success of the HSCB. This concert was dedicated to Mr. Fred Jonas, longtime member of the HSCB and a staple of the clarinet section. Even after having to cease playing due to health reasons, Mr. Jonas continued to attend band concerts and enthusiastically support the band. He will be dearly missed. Thank you, Sir! The band wants to thank everyone who attended the concert and donated to the Kiwanis Club's mission of helping children and youth of our area. In looking ahead, the band has seven more concerts this year, beginning with the Memorial Day Concert at Whittington Park in Hot Springs on Monday, May 25, at 3 p.m. You won't want to miss this annual tribute to those of our military service who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and way of life. The concert is free to the public. Plan on bringing your outdoor chairs and cold drinks for an enjoyable afternoon of dedication and patriotism. |
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