Concert and Awards Program - Cary Academy

9 th Annual Pops on the Quad
Thursday, May 6, 2010
6:30 PM
Cary Academy Quad
Concert Program
Guantanamera (traditional)
Beginning Band
Cuban Folksong, arr. Lopez
Carnaval (2004)
Combined Beginning and MS Band
arr. Michael Sweeney
Low Rider (1975)
Amparito Roca (1935)
MS Band
US Band
War, arr. Michael Brown
Jaime Texidor, arr. Winter
Hot, Hot, Hot (1983)
Alphonsus Cassell,
arr. Lavender
Combined MS and US Band with US Drumline
Ketchup is Not a Spice (2008)
MS Jazz Band
Dean Sorenson
Manteca (1948)
Combined MS and US Jazz Band
Dizzy Gillespie,
arr. Sweeney
My Little Suede Shoes (1956)
A Night in Tunisia (1944)
La Negra Tiene Tumbao (2001)
US Jazz Combo
US Jazz Band
US Jazz Band
Charlie Parker
Dizzy Gillespie, arr. Ford
Osorio & George, arr. Lopez
1

09-10 Beginning Band Members
Flute Trumpet Trombone/Euphonium
Katie Barbrey * Michael Hopkins Ian Brundige
Avery Campbell Emilio Ochoa Shaan Buttar #
Kevin Kenna Griffin Matsuo *
Alto Saxophone
Clarinet Jeonghun Lee * Tuba
Arnav Goswami *
Jack Pullen
Owen Guard
Oboe
Aiden LeFebvre Jahren Hubal # Percussion
Ian O'Rourke
Michael Dudash
Kevin Wu # Officer Tyler Gregory
* Section Leader Dre Ransdell *
2

09-10 Middle School Band Members
Flute Trumpet Baritone Saxophone
Emma Astrike-Davis Jonathan Avery Austin Mangelsdorf *
Lydia Field *
Matthew Hutzenbuhler
Varun Kasula
Guitar
Clarinet Josh Milligan * Pujith Adusumilli
Andy Cooper # * D
Katie Shy
Nyal Patel Devon Witek * Electric Bass
Kat Stafford
Nick Trombetta
Trombone
Alto Saxophone Kendall Bell Percussion
Mensheng Romano * Andrew Hamrick R S Pujith Adusumilli
Richard Van Vliet Daniel Sheitman R S Jake Buchanan *
Martin Kendrick
Horn
Brian Nelson
Matthew Aupperle #
# Officer * Section Leader
D All-District Band R All-Region Jazz Band S All-State Jazz Band
3

09-10 Upper School Band Members
Flute/Piccolo Alto Saxophone French Horn
Nicole Ackman Michael Averell Allen Yang, guest
Ruchi Desai
Alex Touzov
Melissa Geiss # * 10
Percussion
Tyler Powell Baritone Saxophone Alex Ade DL
Wynton Wong DL Mike McCord * 10 Gerry Cuomo DL
Christine Yazdani # Matt Hamm DL # 10
Bassoon
Caelan Harshaw DL
Oboe Jen Kenyon Gaurav Judge DL
Ryan Cinoman
Kunal Kamerkar DL
Bass Clarinet
Yates Parrish DL
Clarinet
Chris Martin
Jack Hannon 10
# Officer
Michael Papich Trumpet * Section Leader
Andrew Tie # * Austin Crockett * 10 DL Drumline
Nick Schumann
10 Senior
4

09-10 Middle School Jazz Band Members
Clarinet Violin Piano
Nyal Patel Zoe Sheitman Kaavya Ashok
Alto Saxophone Trumpet Guitar
Andy Cooper Matthew Hutzenbuhler Pujith Adusumilli
Mensheng Romano Josh Milligan Max Gowan
Richard Van Vliet
Devon Witek
Bass
Tenor Saxophone Trombone Michael Todd
Micaela Rosen
Andrew Hamrick
Daniel Sheitman #
Drums
Baritone Saxophone Braden Saba Jake Buchanan
Austin Mangelsdorf
Tyler Gregory
# Officer Dre Ransdell
5

09-10 Upper School Honors Jazz Band Members
Alto Saxophone Trumpet Piano
Joe Calder Zach Graves Joseph Cornett C
Alex Coeytaux * C Daniel Orol *
Rachna Kuchibhatla Nick Schumann Guitar
Austin Cooper # 10 C
Tenor Saxophone Drums Jeremy Kleiman
Andrew Tie C Alex Cooper C Matt Rushin
Gerry Cuomo
Harrison Wicker
Baritone Saxophone
Gaurav Judge
Mike McCord 10 Brandon Wilson # * 10 Bass
Alex Rosenthal 10 C
Clarinet Vibes Thomas Worm
Michael Papich
Abe Hawari
C Combo
# Officer * Section Leader 10 Senior
6

Awards Program
Certificate Symbols of Participation
Audition
This represents the
effort made by any
student who
auditioned to
participate in an
honor ensemble.
Performance
This represents the
effort made by any
student who
performed in an
honor ensemble.
Other Ensemble
This represents a
student’s
participation in a
second instrumental
music class at Cary
Academy.
Jazz Band
This represents
membership in
either the US or
MS Jazz Band.
Pep Band or
Drumline
This represents a
student’s
participation in Pep
Band or US
Drumline Club.
Officer or Section
Leader
This represents a
student’s
leadership role in
class.
Competition or Festival
This represents a student’s
performance at the UNCW
Jazz Festival on March 26
or the Band Competition on
April 10, 2010
7

Award Descriptions
Director's Award for Leadership
Students exhibit leadership in many ways. Some motivate those around them to work together to
stretch personal limits. Others lead by example, teaching those around them by being prepared and
playing their music as it is meant to be played. Still, others lead by demonstrating consistent effort
and excellence in their overall approach to playing music on their instruments. Students receiving
recognition for outstanding leadership have served as role models throughout the year by
demonstrating exceptional musicianship and effort.
Director’s Award for Improvement
Playing a musical instrument seems to come easier to some people than others. However,
determination and hard work often make the difference in a student’s musical growth. In addition,
seeking help from a teacher or friends and incorporating their advice into practice habits yields
further growth. Musical ability is less inherited than it is earned. Students receiving recognition for
outstanding improvement have shown an intense desire to better their playing, exemplary effort,
and have demonstrated a dramatic increase in their musical skills.
Director’s Award for Spirit
Students also display spirit in many ways: Energy… Interest… Positive Attitude... Some see what
needs to be done, often without being asked, and do it. Others are curious and always interested in
doing or learning something new or different about music. Still others have a demeanor and
enthusiasm about playing music and about life that is simply contagious. Students receiving
recognition for outstanding spirit have inspired and challenged us all to strive for excellence
throughout the year through their enthusiasm, service, and attitude.
John Philip Sousa Band Award
This national award is given to an Upper School student in recognition of outstanding achievement
and interest in band, for singular merit in loyalty and cooperation, and for displaying the high
qualities of conduct that school music requires.
Louis Armstrong Jazz Award
This national award is given to an Upper School student in recognition of outstanding achievement
and interest in jazz music. Exceptional ability in solo and ensemble playing are consistently
demonstrated by the recipient of this award.
Band Letter (first awarded in the 2004-2005 school year)
Upper school band students earn a band letter by being enrolled in a band class beyond the one unit
of credit required for graduation. Therefore, students enrolled in one band class per year earn band
letters during their third year. Students enrolled in both band and jazz band classes in their first
year earn band letters for enrolling in at least one band class during their 2 nd year.
8

A Brief History of the CA Band Program
In the fall of 1997, Mr. Grush began developing the instrumental music program, assisted by strings
teachers Dr. Charles Campbell and Ms. Gina Calabria. There were 10 students in the Upper School
Orchestra, 32 students in the Middle School (7th and 8th grade) classes and 25 students in the
Beginning (6 th grade) classes. All instrumental music classes were held in room 108 in the middle
school, now a science lab.
In the spring of 1998, twenty students in grades 6-9 formed an after school Jazz Band Club.
Beginning in ’98-‘99 rehearsals moved to twice a week before school at 7:00AM. Fall of 2000
marked the formation of MS Jazz Band - a club that met once per week for 45 minutes and was
open to all 6th - 8th grade students, regardless of their enrollment in Band class. US Jazz Band
became a class in fall of 2000, but still met before school twice per week until 2002. In 2001, Mr.
Qiao arrived to teach the orchestra classes and Mr. Grush focused on the Band and Jazz Band.
For the 09-10 school year, there are 19 Beginning Band students, 23 MS Band students, 24 US
Band students, 21 US Jazz Band students, 4 Jazz/Rock Improvisation Students, 13 Music Theory
Students, and many members of the MS Pep Band Club, US Drumline Club, and MS Jazz Band.
Over the past 13 years, US and MS Band students have performed in the following locations and
have earned numerous honors and awards.
Performance Locations
On Campus
Dining Hall
Quad
Gym
Auditorium
Admin Building
Off Campus
SAS building V
UNC
NCSU
NC School of the Arts
Ravenscroft
Campbell University
Meymandi Concert Hall
Cary Senior Center
Carmen’s Cuban Cafe
District Festivals
Jacksonville, NC
Shelby, NC
Monroe, NC
Tarboro, NC
Asheboro, NC
Hillsborough, NC
Morrisville, NC
Other Festivals and
Performances
Myrtle Beach, SC
Orlando, FL
Atlanta, GA
Williamsburg, VA
Charlotte, NC
Richmond, VA
Winston-Salem, NC
Honors and Awards
Performed at the NC Music Educators Association Convention – November 10, 2008
2 Grand Champion/Highest Score Awards
9 First Place Awards
4 Superior Ratings at District Festivals
71 Students in All-District Band
10 Students in All-Region Jazz Band
18 Students in All-State Honors Band
2 Students in All-State Jazz Band
2 students in NC Governor's School
16 students in NCAIS Honor Band
15 students in CA Band for all 7 years
2 Performances at Meymandi Concert Hall
3 Videos with CA soundtracks from Disney
Over 225 pieces of music played in 13 years
More than 70 performances in 13 years
9

Melissa Geiss
03-04
Band Class of 2010 when they started
Brandon Wilson
03-04
Alex Rosenthal
03-04
Austin Crockett
04-05
Matt Hamm
05-06
Jack Hannon
06-07
Mike McCord
07-08
Austin Cooper
09-10
2010 Band Seniors
10

To the band class of 2010 from Mr. Grush . . .
Participating in the instrumental music program and putting up with me for this long does indeed deserve
special recognition and some reminiscing! I look back to 2003, when Melissa started playing flute and
Brandon played percussion in Beginning Band and Alex played guitar in MS Jazz Band. Austin Crockett
joined the MS band in 2004 and Matt came in 2005. Jack started playing clarinet as a 9 th grader in 2006, and
Mike jumped on board in 2007. It took me 3 years to convince him, but Austin Cooper started playing in
jazz band this year. The eight seniors have played for a total of 42 years in the Cary Academy Band
Program! Wow!!! I am proud of your musical growth, but most proud of the exceptional young people you
have become. Without your amazing talent, dedication, and leadership, the Cary Academy Band Program
would not have approached the level of success we have attained. I admire each of you, am deeply grateful
to you, and will dearly miss you.
Do you remember . . .
03-04 the Beginning Band in-class demonstration when you wrote your own music to perform.
04-05 the Busch Gardens competition? MS Band earned Superior! US Jazz Band won Grand Champion!
05-06 the performance at Campbell University.
06-07 the Disney Trip - our own video soundtrack and performance in the Magic Kingdom.
07-08 the Dixie Classic – US Jazz Band and Jazz Combo earned Superiors!
08-09 the NCMEA Convention – US and MS Jazz Bands performed for the state’s jazz teachers.
08-09 Kansas City Jazz – Cecil, Ramon, the CA Swing Dance Club Assembly, and the 30’s style outfits.
Band Class of 2010 Future Plans
Austin Cooper UNC-Chapel Hill English, French, Physics, or History
Austin Crockett Texas A&M Engineering
Melissa Geiss Quinnipiac University Physical Therapy
Matt Hamm Lenoir-Rhyne University Play baseball - Government, Business, Biology, or Pre-med
Jack Hannon UNC-Chapel Hill Psychology/Sociology
Mike McCord High Point University Political Science
Alex Rosenthal McGill University Psychology
Brandon Wilson Campbell University Play baseball - double major in Kinesiology and Spanish
Senior Band Memories: Class of 2010
Austin Cooper
Memories are sometimes difficult to pinpoint; the fluid and indistinguishable quality
of reminiscence truly does define the experience. However, if I were to choose a
specific moment as my "favorite memory," it would be that time when everything
clicked for the Combo. We were in the deafeningly loud practice room, sans
directeur, and the music just clicked -- everything sounded right. This experience is
a lovely paradigm for what being in band has meant to me: I've taken it upon myself
to assist disparate elements in the process of coalescence. Underclassmen, just listen
- to yourself, to the recordings, to your band mates (and maybe Mr. Grush?).
11

Austin Crockett
My favorite band memory is when we went to Disney in my freshman year.
I had a lot of fun playing with a professional conductor and in a sound studio.
Also the music we were playing was a lot of fun. Then the time we spent in
the park was extremely enjoyable.
Melissa Geiss
My favorite band memories would be going to Disney my freshman year and
making All-District Band in 8th grade. In All-District it was really cool to play
with a large group of talented musicians and being able to prepare a full concert
in only a couple days. For Disney, It was fun attending those workshops with a
professional conductor, allowing us to get a different perspective on our pieces.
Of course the time in the parks was awesome as well :) I’ve learned a lot over the
7 years I’ve been in band, both in becoming a better musician and a better leader.
I had never played the flute before coming into CA, and I’ve come such a long
way since then. It’s pretty cool to see how much everyone has progressed over
the years. Thank you Mr. Grush for everything you’ve done for us.
Matt Hamm
Being in band has meant a lot to me these past few years. It has given me the
opportunity to pursue my goals of playing music. Mr. Grush has also helped me
improve my skill in music, and become a better musician. Without him, I do not
believe my skills would be at the level they are today. Mr. Grush is also a fun
guy, but sometimes thinks he’s funnier than he really is. Thanks Mr. Grush.
Jack Hannon
My favorite memory was going to Williamsburg for the band competition and
going to Busch Gardens afterwards. Band has been a wonderful experience for
me, one that means a lot more considering I picked up the clarinet in 9th grade.
It has been a great way to be part of a performing group and make friends.
12

Mike McCord
My favorite band memory was playing with the NCAIS Honor Band down at
Campbell University. It was great to work incredibly hard all day with talented
musicians and then put on a wonderful performance almost immediately
afterwards.
Alex Rosenthal
My favorite memory in Jazz Band brings me back to the time the combo
played Charlie Parker's My Little Suede Shoes. Having never played together
as a group, the combo somehow tackled one of the most difficult pieces in the
Real Book's repertoire and came out alive. We really took Charlie Parker's
piece and made it our own. I first played Tenor Sax in Jazz band. When I got
a taste of the bass guitar, I was hooked. I did not leave the jazz band despite
this instrumental change, however, and instead decided to try my hand at the
rhythm section. I have felt quite comfortable here and I hope to further the
musical journey on which the Cary Academy Jazz Band has started for me in
college.
Brandon Wilson
My first favorite band memory doesn't actually involve Jazz Band; it is
making all district band on timpani in 8th grade. That was my first experience
playing with a large group made up of so many talented musicians and it was
really exciting that the group sounded so good. For a Jazz Band memory, I
would choose this whole year as well as our competition in Virginia. I've
really enjoyed listening to Latin music since traveling to Ecuador in my
sophomore year and this year gave me a chance to gain a little understanding
of Latin style. Thanks for the last 7 years Mr. Grush.
13

Mr. Grush’s memories of seniors and future predictions
Austin Cooper
Austin, well it took 3 years, but I finally talked you into joining jazz band … and everyone in jazz band has
benefited immensely. You are easily one of the most creative and talented musicians we have had in the 13
years of Cary Academy. When we first met, you thought you knew more than me about music, and you
were partially right. At that point, to you, music meant blues guitar and your band, Citizen. Since then, you
have spent a week at Berkley studying music theory and now have started jazz guitar lessons. Now I smugly
say, I knew that you had more in you and a world of music in jazz that you had not explored. I thank you for
all that you have taught me. Future Prediction – At UNC, Austin spends most of his time on Franklin
Street, playing, listening, and talking with musicians. Over his 10 years there, he amasses enough hours for
4 undergrad degrees plus 2 masters’ degrees without earning any, because he could not make up his mind to
declare a major!
Austin Crockett
Austin, I was thrilled to find out we had a new 7 th grade trumpet player joining band. But little did I know
what an invaluable addition you would be! You instantly became a musical leader in the class because of
your work ethic and dedication to take weekly private trumpet lessons. Each year I saw improvement and
then a huge leap your junior year, as effort and experience helped you put it all together. You never made
All-District Band, but you auditioned almost every year to improve yourself. We can all learn from your
persistence and desire. You have also been a steadfast member of the swim and lacrosse teams. However,
your biggest band claim to fame in my book is that you and Melissa hold the record for the longest CA Band
relationship in history . . . and it all started on the Band trip to Disney in 2007! Future Prediction –
Although he loves to swim and play lacrosse, Austin is forced to choose one sport at Texas A&M. Unable to
pick just one, Austin combines the two by playing club Water Polo. Through incredible hard work he makes
it to the varsity team and eventually the USA Olympic Team.
Melissa Geiss
Melissa, early in your 6 th grade year I remember a day when we had a playing quiz in class. You played well
and I gave you some suggestions on what to improve, but you were upset. I have come to know over the
past 7 years that you are a sensitive and extremely caring person, not being satisfied with anything but your
best. I admire that in you. You are a superb musician and have been a musical leader in each of your band
classes, auditioning for All-District Band almost every year. In addition, you are an excellent student and
athlete, being a leader on the tennis, swimming, and softball teams. My most vivid memory of you was
seeing you together with Austin on the Disney trip in 2007. You two hold the record for the longest CA
Band relationship in history! Future Prediction – After Quinnipiac, Melissa opens her own physical
therapy office. For those who need patient, sustained focus, she plays tranquil music on flute. For those
who need motivation to push themselves, she pulls out her piccolo and they work harder to get away from the
noise!
Matt Hamm
Matt, as the last remaining original member of the drumline, you have done more to encourage and promote
the drumline than anyone in its history. You have been an excellent drumline captain, dealing with members
with varied levels of talent, experience, and commitment. You have played drumset in jazz band. As a
junior, you indentified your strengths and interests and focused solely on drumline and concert band. Also,
you have been the foundation of the baseball team for the past 5 years. You had to learn how to catch
Brandon’s fastball, which you did, and you helped make him a better player as well. The Lenoir Rhyne
baseball team will be lucky to have you! Future Prediction – After Lenoir-Rhyne and medical school, Matt
becomes one of the team physicians in the Atlanta Braves organization. To help an injured pitcher rehab his
wrist, Matt prescribes some unorthodox physical therapy – playing marching percussion instruments.
Before long, the entire bullpen is playing cadences before games as part of their warm-up routine!
14

Jack Hannon
Jack, I remember our first meeting the summer before you entered CA. You had played piano, but now
chose clarinet. I have never seen someone pick up a band instrument in 9 th grade and turn into such a
marvelous player. Everyone else in our class had at least 3 years of experience - some up to 7 years. You
were extremely patient and worked incredibly hard to develop your skill to the same level as your
classmates. By this past summer, you were even ready to tackle picking up a 2 nd instrument – Tenor Sax.
Jack, your success is testimony to your perseverance and dedication. In addition to band, you have been an
important member of the swimming and track teams. Future Prediction – At UNC, Jack joins the marching
and pep bands. After graduating with a degree in psychology, Jack begins work on a PHD in Sociology and
proposes as his thesis, “the multi-layered social structure of an athletic band”. What does he hope to learn?
Nothing – he just wants to go to the bowl games, the ACC Tournament, and the NCAA Tournament (or
maybe the NIT)!
Mike McCord
Mike, as our Bari Sax player, you have literally been the foundation of US Band and Jazz Band for the last 3
years. You have been willing to cover parts for so many instruments we did not have in the band. Usually
that has meant cutting and pasting from 2 or more parts to come up with the music you would play. There is
no way we would have been as successful without your talent and effort. On a personal note, I truly
appreciated your hand-written thank you card during “CA one week”. I have not known you to talk much
about yourself or how you feel about things, but the times you have opened up, you have spoken from the
heart. Alright, enough of the sentimental stuff - let’s talk business. You gave me money to buy reeds for
you in August, but not enough to cover the entire cost. Where is the $15 you owe me?!
Future Prediction – As a summer job, Mike begins working for the family business of two former students
who played saxophone in jazz band. It is a modeling job, but they don’t want Mike for his body or his
ruggedly handsome facial features . . . the family business is Mitchell’s Hair Styling.
Alex Rosenthal
Alex, as one of three 7 year seniors, you have come full circle – starting in the rhythm section as a 6th grader
in MS Jazz Band (guitar), then to Tenor Sax in MS Band, US Band, and US Jazz Band. You’re a good sax
player, but little did we know the immensity of your musical talent until your inner bass player was
unleashed! I think you could play any instrument, if you tried. Your drive to excel is evidenced by your
exceptional success in wrestling and by your performance tonight on string bass, an instrument you have
taught yourself during free periods and lunch periods over the last few months. I am amazed by how quickly
you can hear something and play it. You have one of the best ears for music of any student I have ever
taught. Your enthusiasm is contagious as you have been the MC for countless school events. Future
Prediction – After missing yet another important email message from a professor, Alex becomes
disillusioned with educational institutions’ dependence on email and computers. He joins a commune in the
southwest where all electronic technology is banned, the members wear knit hats (even in hot weather,) and
they spend all day playing music together.
Brandon Wilson
Brandon, you are one of two 7 year seniors this year. You have played concert percussion and drumset, but
this year also became our steel drummer. I forgot to check, did you play steel drum with your mouth open
like you sometimes do with drum set? Seriously, you are one of, if not THE, hardest working students I
have ever seen at CA. I have never heard you complain or make excuses. You keep going and going (like
the energizer bunny) until you complete what you set out to do – in academics, arts, and athletics. The
baseball team would have loved to have you pitch every inning of every game, if you could have. One piece
of advice: learn how to spell Kinesiology before next fall (you spelled it wrong when you wrote it for me!)
Future Prediction – After his days playing baseball at Campbell are over, Brandon is drafted and
eventually makes his way to the big leagues. When asked what inspired him to start playing baseball when
he was young he answers, “my Mom and Dad”. Why is that? “They encouraged and supported me, but I
never would have spent so much time outside if there wasn’t all that incessant music practicing in my
house!”
15

2009-2010 Band Event Descriptions
Music Camps (Summer 2010)
Ryan Cinoman (’12)
Music Camps can be many things, including just a way to get in some practice before coming back to school.
At a music camp, you can get specialized tutoring and lessons, as well as group ensemble practice, and
hopefully you’ll get to try something you’ve never done before. There are many opportunities you can get at
summer camps that you can’t get here at Cary Academy, such as teaching from College Professors or other
experienced teachers. Depending on what camp you sign up for, you could get music theory classes or
private lessons with professional teachers. But, of course the best part is meeting fellow musicians of your
same level, and playing in groups with them in the concert on the final day.
US Drumline Club (Year-long)
Matt Hamm (’10)
The drum line this year played a variety of different songs and
instruments. First, Yates and I went to a retirement home to play for
their annual Olympic games. That was a blast because everyone was
getting into it and dancing to the beat. We also got to get out of class,
which was an added plus. Next the drum line learned a few different
songs that we made up on our own and played at Homecoming.
Finally, at the Variety show, we decided that we wanted to switch it up
a little bit and play trash cans. The song we played was called Stinkin’
Garbage. This song consisted of us playing on each other’s drums
(trash cans) and reaching over each other’s hands. I’ve had a lot of fun
with the drum line this year, and I’m sad to be leaving it behind.
Island Music Theme for the year (Year-long)
Michael Papich (’11)
At the end of last year, Mr. Grush told us he had an interest in us playing
island music the next year. Many of us were skeptical, but by the end of
this year, we can see why he wanted to play it so much. From the highly
stylized Salsa music, mainly of Cuban origins, to classic Reggae, a
“movement of ja people”. I honestly had fun playing these high-paced,
exciting pieces and I’m sure most other people did as well.
Beginning Band In-Class Demonstration (September 2010)
Kevin Wu (’16)
The in-class demonstration was a good opportunity to show our parents how hard it actually is to start
playing a wind instrument. This demonstration was the Beginning Band who had just started playing their
instruments, with the exception of a few people who had already played their instrument. We didn’t sound
too good at that time, but we could still blow decent notes. Then at the end the parents got to try playing our
instrument. They couldn’t even make a sound! This was a good experience and it showed our parents how
hard we have worked. How about an encore?!
16

Jazz on the Quad and Panyelo (October 2009)
Micaela Rosen (’16)
Even though “Jazz on the Quad” turned out to be “Reggae in the Auditorium”, everybody still had fun
listening to reggae music performed by Cary Academy’s Jazz Bands and Panyelo. Both the US and MS Jazz
Bands had a great time working with Panyelo, a steel drum band. We learned a lot from the members of the
Panyelo band, and our pieces were very much improved after having worked with them. We even got to
hear the story of how the steel drums came to be! I would definitely recommend having Panyelo come
again; it was an awesome experience!
Grandparents Day Performance (November 2009)
Rachna Kuchibhatla (’13)
NCAIS Honor Band (NC Association of Independent Schools)
(November 2009) Christine Yazdani (’11)
This year was the first of the NCAIS Honor Band. Cary Academy
participated amongst many independent high schools in North
Carolina. The members of this band were selected by their band
directors to play along with the Campbell University music
students directed by Dr. Dwayne Wilson (CA parent). We played
a variety of music that was challenging and fun. As the band
practiced together the day before the concert, we got to experience
playing with a university band. We performed the concert on
Saturday. I think that it was a great opportunity and experience as
we got to play at a higher level which pushed us to work harder.
Grandparents Day was a day when all of the Grandparents of students gained the opportunity to come and
visit their grandkids at school. It was also the day that they had the chance to listen to the Upper School Jazz
Band. During the first trimester, we focused on playing Reggae and Calypso pieces. We performed Limbo
Jazz by Duke Ellington, El Carribe by Lalo Cavila, and Exodus by Bob Marley. I personally enjoyed
performing in this concert as it was one of the first concerts of the year, as well as one of my first times
playing jazz music. I hope there will be another Grandparents Day performance next year as well!!!!
Winter Band Concert with Mickey Mills (December 2009)
Owen Guard (’16)
The Winter Band Concert with Mickey Mills was the Beginning Band’s first concert. Some of the people
involved in the concert were the Beginning Band, the MS Band, the US Band, and guest steel drummer
Mickey Mills. I really enjoyed learning and playing with a professional musician (Mickey Mills). It was also
fun playing for my friends in the Middle School. I would recommend that we do the winter concert again,
and I would encourage more people to come to it next year, because it will be even more fun!
Homecoming Pep Rally and MS Pep Band Games (December 2009 and February 2010)
Emma Astrike-Davis (’14)
What do you get when you combine peppy music with intense basketball playing? An awesome band
playing opportunity! Pep Band was a lot of fun, because it allowed anyone from a middle school band to
play familiar songs together in front of a relaxed crowd. At the same time it gave us a way to help cheer on
our basketball playing friends at several of their games. I felt that we played well together and sounded good,
but the most important thing was that we had a great time, and everyone at the game was able to enjoy our
music.
17

All-District Band Auditions (January 2010)
Andy Cooper (’14)
The All-District Concert Band Auditions was an event that involved hundreds of 6 th -12 th grade musicians in
the state. Anyone who played a concert band instrument, had a band director who is a member of the NC
Music Educators Association, and lived in the central area of NC was eligible. It was very fun because it was
a huge audition with talented musicians trying out for a large band. It was a great opportunity to experience a
professional audition: playing scales, a challenging solo piece, and sight-reading. It involved a lot of
practicing! I definitely encourage people to try this next year because it’s a fun and challenging event that
will help you progress as a musician.
All-Region Jazz Band Auditions and Weekend (January/February 2010)
Daniel Sheitman (’14)
The NC Middle School All-Region Jazz Band is similar to the older, larger All-District Concert Band. The
audition process is also similar; about a couple hundred students play scales, a solo, improvise for a few bars,
and sight read a piece. Those who make the band travel to a school where they will rehearse for a day and a
half with pieces of music members only have a short amount of time to learn, before performing a concert.
Unfortunately, we had to leave a day early because of heavy snow. However, I enjoyed it and I will likely
try out for the high school version next year.
US Salsa Assembly with Orquesta Gardel (February 2010)
Wynton Wong (’11)
After weeks of work with the talented musicians of Orquesta Gardel, the US Band and US Jazz Bands were
proud to debut our salsa music to the entire Upper School. The entire band had fun experimenting with such
an energetic genre of music because of the musical arrangements made especially for us by Orquesta Gardel
director, Andy Kleindienst. Orquesta Gardel members accompanied us on vocals and instruments, elevating
the performance to a whole other level. The quick, upbeat tempo of the music alongside some jamming
percussion got people in the audience tapping their feet and dancing. Soon enough the Salsa Club feel was
completed as the stage was full of dancers and everyone was enjoying the music. The assembly was fun and
light-hearted, something that got everyone grooving.
MS Salsa Assembly with Orquesta Gardel (February 2010)
Jake Buchanan (’14)
The band assembly for the Middle School was a “Salsa Club”. Rather than just
listening to the music, the audience got to be involved by dancing to the live music
of the MS band classes with guests. These guests were from a group called the
“Orquesta Gardel,” with some of them from areas such as Puerto Rico and the
Dominican Republic, where Salsa music is one of the most popular genres. I liked
the whole idea as well as the new genre of music we played. I also enjoyed having
these special guests help us incorporate their indigenous style into the music.
Salsa Club Evening at Carmen’s Cuban Cafe (February 2010)
Kendall Bell (’15)
The Salsa Club at Carmen’s Cuban Café (try saying that 5 times fast) was awesome. You can’t really go
wrong with good food, good music, and great musicians. The Salsa Club was a time for the MS and US
bands to play in front of a small crowd, listen to the professional musicians play, dance, and enjoy the club
environment. We played standing up with some professional accompaniment and, believe it or not, we
sounded pretty good. This is something we have to do again. Overall the crazy Salsa Club at Carmen’s
Cuban Café was muy bueno.
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UNCW Jazz Festival (March 2010)
Joseph Cornett (’13)
The UNCW (UNC-Wilmington) Jazz Festival was a wonderful opportunity for the Jazz Combos (both MS
and US) to hear performances by jazz ensembles from regional schools. It was a one-day event (on a Friday,
even!), and while there were no awards given, nor a competitive aspect of any sort, the praise and feedback
given to the ensembles after their respective performances was in greater volume and, most importantly,
more specific to playing the jazz genre. The remarks received from the judges and UNCW faculty also
helped prepare the ensembles for the Williamsburg competition, and the lack of a competitive aspect to the
event created less pressure on the ensembles; any of the participants can say with conviction that it was an
event definitely worth attending.
All-State Jazz Band Auditions and Weekend (March/April 2010)
Andrew Hamrick (’14)
On April 3-4, Daniel Sheitman and I participated in the All-State Jazz Band. We drove down Friday
morning and practiced from 10:30 in the morning to 9:00 at night. The all-state jazz band consisted of one
drummer, one bass, one piano, two alto saxophones, two tenor saxophones, one bari saxophone, five
trumpets, and five trombones. We learned five pieces in only a day and half and sounded great on our
concert. The high school jazz band was unbelievably good. After the concert Daniel, Mr. Grush, our
families, and I went to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. It was a long weekend but it was worth it.
Williamsburg Competition (April 2010)
Alex Coeytaux (’12)
After nearly two trimesters of preparing the same pieces, the
CA band community got the opportunity to show off their
skills in Williamsburg. For the new additions to band, this
was their first experience playing in front of judges in a
competitive setting. Despite the pressure, though, Cary
Academy exceeded expectations and took home a total of
nine awards, including overall high school and middle school
jazz champions. To end what was already an exciting day, the
group spent the afternoon having a great time in Busch
Gardens. The overall experience was educational and
entertaining, and everyone enjoyed participating.
2009-2010 Honor Band Participants
NCAIS Honor Band NCAIS Honor Band MS All-District Band
Ryan Cinoman Caelan Harshaw Andy Cooper
Andy Cooper
Jen Kenyon
Austin Crockett Mike McCord MS All-Region Jazz Band
Gerry Cuomo Daniel Orol Max Gowan
Ruchi Desai Michael Papich Andrew Hamrick
Melissa Geiss Daniel Sheitman Daniel Sheitman
Andrew Hamrick
Andrew Tie
Jack Hannon Christine Yazdani MS All-State Jazz Band
Andrew Hamrick
Daniel Sheitman
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Band Pins 09-10
Since we have started a tradition of awarding band letters to Upper School students who have participated in
more than two band classes, we want to give all students the opportunity to begin earning pins to wear as
well. Budget constraints prohibit awarding so many pins, but students who have earned special pins may
purchase their own to wear on their concert outfit if they wish, until they have earned a band letter. This is
strictly optional.
Pins cost $6 each. Special pins for which students may be eligible include:
Students may also want a pin of the instrument they play. Instrument pins also cost $6 each.
Options include:
You may order pins tonight if you wish. See the Band Pin Eligibility List to see who is eligible. We will
place a group order from the pin vendor next week. Our goal is to receive the pins before the end of year and
distribute them in class.
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