Maple School's west gymnasium couldn't have been a better setting for the hundreds of families that attended Wescott and Willowbrook School musicians' winter concert on January 28. The bleachers were completely packed with an eager audience.
Wescott and Willowbrook School Principals Dr. Chris Brown and Dr. Scott Carlson gave a hearty welcome to attendees and began the evening by thanking the parents for their ongoing support, and the children for their efforts.
"Let's do something a little different. Let's start the night by giving the students a big round of applause!" said Dr. Brown.
The sound of so many people clapping in support of the kids was music to the ears.
The sweet performances of the orchestra and the cadet orchestra (year two students) were conducted by the new elementary orchestra teacher Ruth Pikler.
The cadet orchestra's performance of "Dragon Hunter," even brought accolades by staff on District 30's Twitter feed.
District 30 also welcomed a very special guest! Ms. Pickler's husband Charles Pikler is a retired principal violist for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and he generously played with the beginning orchestra during their performance.
Band director Ben Clemons led the boisterous band with especially creative renditions of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star," and other popular songs.
Maple School music director Decima Panitch and orchestra director Renee Yoo were also present. Ms. Panitch accompanied the musicians on piano, and Ms. Yoo assisted with the orchestras.
Superintendent Dr. Brian Wegley summed up his feelings about the overall performance, "I was so impressed with our musicians' outstanding performance at tonight's elementary band/orchestra concert! Thank you to our students, staff, and parents for their commitment!"
View photos of concert
