All of Woodhaven High Schools band classes and clubs came together on October 16th to perform a wonderful concert for members of the downriver community. Starting with the WHS Concert Band who performed Down by the Salley Garden traditionally arranged by Roszell and Hello Humans by Jason Nitsch. Hello Humans was a very unique piece filled with bizarre sound effects to truly give the audience an out of this world experience.
The WHS Concert Band was followed by a performance from the WHS Symphonic Band. The Symphonic band performed City of Lights by Andrew Watkin and This is Halloween by Elfman arranged by Vinson. This is Halloween is from the 1993 family classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Tim Burton. The sound sends chills down your spine as you listen to the intensity of this arrangement.
The class presenting next was WHS Wind Ensemble, performing Phoenix Rekindled by Grace Baugher Dunlap and Rocketship! By Kevin Day. Phoenix Rekindled was a beautiful piece filled with phenomenal dynamics and an ethereal sound, giving the audience a calming feel. Rocketship! was an upbeat and intense song, with a powerful build, adventurous tone and united sound.
Jazz Band was the last class to perform and their pieces included C Jam Blues by Ellington arranged by Taylor and St. James and Infirmary by Primrose arranged by Kamuf. Jazz Band is an incredible opportunity for students to go to school at 6:30 AM to practice these pieces. This dedication is clear with their performances. Mr. Farinarz stated, “ Kids take it as a 7th class, playing anything from Jazz, Pop, R&B, and Soul. One of the key components is teaching kids to make up a solo on the spot.” Jazz band is not limited to students from Woodhaven either, a student that comes to the high school for an AP class also participates in from Riverview.
After an intermission, the marching band came back to perform all of the students favorite songs from the football season. With the theme “ What Up Doe? “ They go back in history and play many of the local Mo Town and Detroit artists such as Eminem, Bob Seger and Stevie Wonder, performing an enjoyable experience for all listeners.
Bandorama is so special because it is the only concert of the year where all of the bands come together to put on this incredible performance. It truly shows the unity and determination of all the band members. This is clear when at the very end of their set they ask for all the alumni to come up as they all sing the Woodhaven Alma Mater as one. It was an inspiring moment for the audience.
An honorable mention to all of the soloists at the concert! Josh Dauzy, Ian Wilson, Nyjah Crump, Matt Calvin, Jadyn Martin, Noah Poynter, Owen Green, Sebastian Sims, Tyler Moore, Tony Pizzimenti, Kijani Gillespie, Jayden Baylor, and Eric Bond.
