Spring Music Concert 2017

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Source/Author: Ethan Updike, Band Director

May 05, 2017

The 2017 Spring Music Concert was quite the sight to see! As always, it was a platform for students to showcase their hard work and improvement on the big stage. And this year was no exception.

Some of the highlights included a new fourth Grade Band class performing for their second ever time, a growing fifth Grade Band, 30 Middle School students on stage at the same time playing "Dramatico," five rock bands delivering lots of energy, senior Holly M playing beautiful Mozart and Chopin, and the Upper School Band delivering an inspiring performance as always.

(Band Concert Video)

Lee Ahlin, long time teacher of guitar ensemble, rock band, and the Upper School chorus received a special tribute of thanks from Mr. Updike at the concert:

"In the short time I have known Mr. Lee Ahlin, he has served as an invaluable mentor, teacher, and inspiration. After hearing his guitar playing, I was inspired to learn the guitar, bass, and drums, which eventually led to diving head first into restarting a Middle School Rock Band program.

When I think about some of my first encounters with Lee, the 2015 Fall Musical Showcase comes to mind. Lee came up to me and asked if I wanted to play the George Gershwin classic, “Summertime.” Of course I said, “I’d love to!” Little did I know he would ask, “Would you like to take a solo?” Of course I answered, “I am not much of an improviser as I am mainly a classical trumpeter.” He responded with, “All the better reason to learn it and put yourself out there.”

Lee’s can-do attitude and passion for music has helped me find an interest in playing and teaching rock music and tackling things I never would’ve thought to do. Lee’s legacy of musical excellence is easy to see when you look at the success of his former students. Lee, I wish you the best and happiest retirement possible and thank you for all of your help."

The night concluded with an awards ceremony and a tribute to the graduating seniors. Mr. Updike had this to say to the graduating seniors:

"Dear Band Class of 2017,

I know very few of you are planning to pursue music as a major in college, but I would like to plant a seed in your head as you move forward. Virtually every school, community, and city no matter how small or large has community music ensembles. In college, even as a non-music major, you will have ample opportunities to perform with your colleagues in bands and orchestras. In life, you will have the opportunity to perform in community music ensembles and take lessons with local instructors. A simple Google search reveals that St. Petersburg alone has over five community music ensembles. As skilled musicians, these are ensembles that you can join. If you’re into other music mediums, there are also plenty of jazz, rock, pop, open mic and song writing opportunities within communities. If your music needs are not being met, I would encourage you to go forth and create the opportunities that you envision.

Thank you for your many years of dedication to the Shorecrest Band program. Your contributions, through participation, mentoring, volunteering and overall dedication have made a very large impact in inspiring younger generations of players and in growing the Shorecrest Band Program. Every year, I have younger students come up to me following the concert and tell me how inspiring it was to see the Upper School Band perform. As my first graduating band class, you will all hold a special place in my heart. Congratulations on your impending graduation and I wish you all the very best as you continue with your pursuits in college and beyond."

The graduating seniors then surprised Mr. Updike, sending him to center stage. The students took the podium and shared their favorite band moments with him in a beautiful presentation.

Mr. Updike would like to extend an extra congratulations to all students involved and a special thank you to everyone who helped.

The following students received awards for their years of dedication and service to the band program:

1 year

Dylan B

Derek B

Phoenix B

CJ B

Lily B

Maggie B

William B

Taylor B

Claire B