STURGIS - The Good Spirit School Division Band hosted its annual awards concert at the Sturgis Composite High School on June 8, featuring music steeped in tradition.
Nathan Seghers, band instructor, instructed the beginner, junior and senior divisions through various musical selections during the evening. Seghers spoke briefly on the highlights and accomplishments throughout the year. “During this time of the year, I am filled with a mix of emotions. It's a bittersweet moment for me as a band teacher, as I get to witness the culmination of our musical journey together,” said Seghers.
“Seeing my students grow as musicians fills me with immense pride and gratitude. Their passion for music, willingness to learn and grow, and their unwavering dedication have made this journey so enjoyable. It has been an honor and a privilege to be their band teacher. I hope they have enjoyed their year as much as I have.
Seghers told the audience that 67 intermediate/sophomore band students travelled to Moose Jaw/Regina in May.
“While we were there, we took in the tunnels in Moose Jaw, participated in the Moose Jaw band festival, played laser tag, and visited the science centre in Regina.”
The senior band, which is made up of students in Grades 9-12, travelled to Banff in April.
“While there, we participated in three different workshops,” said Seghers. “One was a composition workshop where students created their own pieces from scratch! We also skied in the mountains, rode up the Sulphur Mountain gondola, participated in an escape room, and did a lot of sightseeing that created memories that will last a lifetime.
“I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the unwavering support of our parents, families, community and friends. Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our band program have been instrumental in our success. We are eternally grateful for your unwavering support,” he concluded.
The theme this year was, Summer Sounds, with music that enlightened the audience.
The beginner band performed two selections, A Demonstration and Midnight Madness by Brian Balmages.
The juniors took to the stage next to perform Intuition by Larry Clark, Once I had a Sweetheart, and Cindy and Frogs by Randall Standridge.
The senior band, accompanied by Grade 8 players, performed, Arabian Nights, The Jolly Earl of Cholmondeley, Ayre for Eventide, The Fiefs of Wembley, highlights from the movie Moana, Endless Rainbows and Byzantine Dances.
The awards acknowledged students in the beginner and Grade 7-12 band divisions.
In the beginner category, Grade 5: Hunter Modelnad of Preeceville received the Most Improved Musician. Seth Propp of Canora received the Peter Olineck Award for Best First Year Band Student, and Ethan Chabun of Canora received the Canora Credit Union Sturgis Branch award for Most Promising Musician Beginner Band.
In the Grade 6 category, Briley Friday of Preeceville received the Grade 6 Most Improved Musician award. Abby Scheller and Kyla Scheller of Preeceville received the Most Outstanding band student award, and Andreanna Jatico of Sturgis and Tessa Prychak of Canora received the Most Promising Musician band award.
In the Grade 7 band category, Dexter Penner of Preeceville received the Most Improved Musician, Simon Craig of Canora received the Most Outstanding Musician and Bella Alblas of Sturgis received the Most Promising Musician award.
In the Grade 8 band category, Heidi Mentanko of Canora received the Most Improved Musician award, Olivia Ivanochko of Preeceville received the Most Outstanding Musician award and Rheana Quibod of Preeceville received the Most Promising Musician award.
In the Grade 9 category, Miah Ruf of Canora received the Most Improved Musician award, Olivia Franz Pinaorc of Preeceville received the Most Outstanding Musician award and Sarah Masko of Preeceville received the Most Promising Musician award.
In the Grade10 category, Chloe Pshyk of Canora received the Most Improved Musician award, Maicey Scheller of Preeceville received the Most Outstanding Musician award and Ashlyn Olson of Norquay received the Most Promising Musician award.
In the Grade 11 category, Callie Sznerch of Canora received the Most Improved Musician award and Jack Craig of Canora received the Most Promising Musician award.
In the Grade 12 category, Tate Bayer of Sturgis received the Most Improved Musician award, Isaiah Maier of Preeceville received the Most Outstanding Musician award and Shayla Goertzen of Norquay was the winner of the Most Promising Musician award.
