The Center for Future Audiences and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic proudly celebrated the talent of our local schools during the Marsalis/Rachmaninoff Masterworks concert. Specifically, April 26th marked our District 11 Spotlight Day, sponsored by Marathon Health. This event showcased four outstanding ensembles from three different schools, highlighting the incredible work of music educators across the district.
A Symphony of Student Talent
The afternoon began with music filling every corner of the Pikes Peak Center. To begin, Elena Zarecky led the Palmer High School Chamber Choir in a beautiful set on the Mezzanine. Simultaneously, Christopher Welch and the Russell Middle School Jazz Band energized the crowd in Studio Bee. As patrons arrived, they wandered through the lobby to listen to these talented young musicians, who set a vibrant tone for the main performance.
Honoring Excellence in Education
Before the main concert commenced, a very special tradition began. Nathan Newbrough, President and CEO, joined D11 Visual and Performing Arts Director Kim Kincaid on stage to present a prestigious honor. They awarded the first-ever District Music Teacher of the Year to Megan Liske from King Elementary. Following several rounds of enthusiastic applause for Megan, guest soloist Michael Sachs joined the orchestra to perform Wynton Marsalis’ Trumpet Concerto.
The Music Continues
The student performances did not stop when the house lights went down. During intermission, Tanesha Reeves led the North Middle School Jazz Band in a lively performance in the Mezzanine Lobby. Furthermore, after the Philharmonic finished Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3, the North Middle School Orchestra provided a perfect “nightcap” in Studio Bee. Joye Levy, Director of the Center for Future Audiences, introduced the group to a packed room of appreciative fans.
“It was a treat for our patrons to see the direct pipeline from the classroom to the professional stage.”
A Masterclass Finale
Ultimately, the day ended with a rare educational opportunity. Michael Sachs, the principal trumpet for the Cleveland Orchestra, stayed after the concert for an exclusive Q&A session with the D11 students. Consequently, these young musicians were able to ask questions to one of the world’s premier performers. The Colorado Springs Philharmonic is honored to partner with District 11, and we look forward to many more “Spotlight” days ahead.
D11 Day sponsored by Marathon Health
