On March 3, the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University (CSB+SJU) Wind Ensemble stopped at Simley High School for a combined concert with the Simley Wind Ensemble. The college band went on tour after being selected for two honors: a performance at the Minnesota Music Educators Association Midwinter Convention and a spot in the College Band Directors National Association Small Band Program Showcase. They chose to make Simley a stop on their tour to perform alongside the wind ensemble directed by CSB+SJU Wind Ensemble alumnus Kevin Robinson.
The Simley Wind Ensemble started the night with a few songs, including Kelijah Dunton’s “Stillwater,” which was composed with the Minnesota town in mind, and a medley of music from Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther.” The CSB+SJU Wind Ensemble performed a few songs after Simley. In between his band’s songs, CSB+SJU Wind Ensemble Conductor Dr. Justin Zanchuk talked to students about playing an instrument in college and complimented Simley’s musicians on their skill. The bands came together to perform one last piece called “To Create a Voice” by Carol Brittin Chambers.
Great job to the high school and college bands on their performances! Thank you to the CSB+SJU Wind Ensemble for bringing its tour to the Simley community and showing Simley students their options for the future.