UMPI Community Band
rocks Ashland High School
ASHLAND NEWS
The UMPI Community Band rocked Ashland Community High School at a recent free concert in the Bobby Goding Memorial Gym. Conducted by Kevin Kinsey, the members of the band played a program of new and old favorites.
A special highlight of the evening was the premiere of an original composition entitled “Motions” by Ashland music instructor Jon Simonoff, who is also a member of the UMPI Community Band. How lucky we are to have such an accomplished musician introducing and instructing our students in the art of music.
Several of the band mates are Ashland High School alumni who seized the opportunity to play “one last time” in the old school gym. A very surprised audience member, Larry Hall, who is a former music teacher at Ashland High School, was “put on the spot” with a request to conduct the band for a tune. Mr. Hall, who said he “has not done this since 1995” graciously accepted the invitation, settling effortlessly into the conductor’s seat. He finished to a standing ovation.
The band performed for several hours to the pleasure of the audience. Members of the PTO were on hand to sell concessions to audience members. The night of music was well received and much appreciated. Hope to hear from them again soon!
Photos courtesy of Susan Feeney-Hopkins
FORMER ASHLAND MUSIC INSTRUCTOR
Larry Hall was surprised with an “on-the-spot” request to conduct the band.
He accepted the invitation and wowed the crowd receiving a standing ovation!
CURRENT ASHLAND MUSIC INSTRUCTOR
Jon Simonoff, who is a member of the UMPI Community Band, conducts the premiere of his own composition, “Motions.”
THE UMPI COMMUNITY BAND
Recently held a free concert at Ashland Community High School.
Conducted by Kevin Kinsey, the band also has some local ties.
The next PTO meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the grade school conference room. The members of the PTO are asking for and encouraging parent/guardian participation. Even if you can’t commit on a “regular” basis, you can still lend your time occasionally! Come on folks – come and support your local PTO! They need you. Contact Kim Holmes for more information at 435-6043.
The Ashland Area Senior Citizens group meets every Thursday at noon at the Ashland Recreational Center. Any senior citizens wishing to participate in the potluck lunches and meetings are always welcome to attend.
The Portage Lake Over 50’s Club lunch is held on the last Tuesday of every month at 11:30 a.m. at the Town Hall. All individuals 50 and over are invited to attend and can bring a potluck dish to share. For more information, contact Wilza Robertson at 435-6211 or Grace Nason at 435-6373.
The Red Hat Loonies of Portage Lake meet the second Thursday of every month at Dean’s Motor Lodge. Membership dues are $2. Come and have a great meal and a great time, too! For more information, contact Rachel Stevens at 435-635.
Monday Night Exercise will be held at the Portage Lake Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. every Monday. Participants can workout at their own pace/instruction. Tapes and equipment are available for your use. Contact the town hall with inquires.
Susan Feeney-Hopkins is the correspondent for Ashland, Portage Lake, Oxbow, Masardis, Garfield, Nashville Plantation and surrounding townships. She can be reached at 435-8232 or feenhop@aol.com.
