To the editor:
The Southside Band Spring Performance under the direction of Music Director, Michael Hutchinson, was held April 9th at the Houlton Community Arts Center.
My wife and I attended the Wednesday evening concert last week. The first number was “Come Fly With Me” performed by 16 members of the Sixth Grade Jazz Band. It was an outstanding musical performance; and, if you closed your eyes, you would never have guessed that they were students up to 12 years of age. They, also, played “Blue Machine” and “Steamroller” with the same quality sounds as in their first number.
The second group to perform was the Sixth Grade Percussion Ensemble doing “The Bucket Brigade”. Again, all 15 were having a great time and the audience really appreciated how each student was in sync with each other during the entire performance.
To finish out the evening was the Southside Concert Band. According to the program, 82 students filled the stage with a very interesting balance of musical instruments. I can’t help but think that Mr. Hutchinson truly had this balance in mind as he built the band when students were taking their first lessons. The selection of music was outstanding and all related to the theme “Take Flight”. The numbers were difficult, but the band members struck each note making it all come alive with each instrument taking part.
Having played in bands since the age of 12, two orchestras and my own two bands, I truly feel Michael Hutchinson and his students prove beyond a doubt that Houlton is “Music Town of Maine.” If I can find room on my McGill’s trailer, I will add Southside Music Department to the listing. I, also, want to add that some of these students have joined McGill’s Band and we are delighted to have them with us.
Michael Clark
McGill’s Band member for 29 years
