Spooktacular Symphonies: Southwestern Michigan College's Haunting Fall Band Concert

Southwestern Michigan College is set to host a captivating fall band concert on Friday, October 25th, at 7:30 PM in the Dale A. Lyons Building's theatre on the Dowagiac campus. The event promises a spooktacular evening of music, ranging from Pulitzer Prize-winning compositions to iconic pop tunes, all while embracing the spirit of Halloween.

Unleash the Haunting Melodies of Southwestern Michigan College's Fall Band Concert

A Haunting Prelude: "Jazz on the Lawn"

The college's jazz ensemble kicked off the festivities with a special preview performance, "Jazz on the Lawn," held on the campus grounds on Thursday. This outdoor event offered a tantalizing glimpse of the musical treats in store for the main concert, whetting the audience's appetite for the upcoming spooktacular event.

The jazz ensemble's performance showcased their versatility, seamlessly transitioning from the timeless jazz standard "How High the Moon" to the Latin-infused classic "Autumn Leaves." Trombonists Aliya Leavitt from Paw Paw and Sam Crago from Watervliet took center stage, showcasing their virtuosic skills, while alto saxophonist Isaiah Morris from Elkhart and tenor saxophonist Joe Rizzo from Niles Brandywine added their own soulful interpretations to the mix. The concert's grand finale, Michael Jackson's "Thriller," had the audience on the edge of their seats, with the saxophone section, including Jasmin Garcia of Hartford on baritone, delivering a spine-tingling performance.

Spooktacular Symphonies: The Main Event

The main event on October 25th promises to be a true musical extravaganza, with the college's Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band taking the stage. Audiences are encouraged to don their most creative costumes and join in the festivities, as trick-or-treating will be available before and after the concert.

The program boasts a diverse lineup, from the Pulitzer Prize-winning compositions of Michael Colgrass to the iconic pop tunes of Michael Jackson. Director of Bands Mark Hollandsworth has promised a night filled with surprises, including a photo booth and a costume contest, inviting attendees to embrace the spooky spirit of the occasion.

The concert will also feature a special tribute to the college's alma mater, as the Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band come together to close the evening with this beloved tune. This heartwarming moment will serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Southwestern Michigan College and the deep connection it shares with its community.

Choral Enchantments: "Song and Saga" Concert

The musical festivities at Southwestern Michigan College don't end with the fall band concert. On Saturday, November 2nd, the college's choir will take the stage for their own captivating performance, "Song and Saga."

This concert promises to be a journey through the ages, exploring the shared spirit of storytelling that unites musical theatre, opera, and the choral craft. Audiences can expect to be treated to a diverse array of solo, small, and large ensemble performances, each one weaving a tapestry of enchanting melodies and captivating narratives.

The "Song and Saga" concert is a testament to the breadth and depth of Southwestern Michigan College's performing arts program, showcasing the exceptional talent and dedication of the college's choir. Music enthusiasts and storytelling aficionados alike are sure to be enthralled by this spellbinding event.

For those eager to experience the full spectrum of Southwestern Michigan College's artistic offerings, the fall band concert and the "Song and Saga" choir performance promise to be must-attend events. With a haunting blend of classical compositions, jazz standards, and pop favorites, these concerts will leave audiences spellbound and eager to return for more.