The St. Dominic Concert Band is one of the many ways that students can get involved and share their musical talents to the school community. From playing up beat music at football and basketball games, to performing melodic pieces at their seasonal concerts, the Concert Band is truly a sight—and sound—to behold.

Under the direction of Mr. Greg Cissell, the Concert Band consists of over 60 students, ranging from freshmen to seniors. Because it is offered as a class, the band meets every other day to rehearse their music for both concerts and sporting events.

One way the Concert Band is involved here at school is through pep band. You can watch them perform on the track at every football game and pep assembly, or in the bleachers at select basketball games. The pep band is a great way to get fans hyped up as they play popular songs during timeouts. They also perform the school song when touchdowns are scored and when the Crusaders win.

“My favorite part of playing in the pep band is getting to bring more life to the games. Without the pep band, I feel that games are less exciting and have less participation from the crowd,” junior bassist Paul Koch said.

The Concert Band is also very involved in the community. Every year on Veterans Day, a group of students from both the band and the choir travel to Twin Oaks Assisted Living homes to play and sing patriotic music to honor the veteran who lived there. Additionally, the band plays at St. Dominic’s open house among other community events throughout the year.

One of the biggest things that the Concert Band prepares for are its seasonal concerts. The fall, Christmas, winter and spring concerts are a great way for members to showcase their talents and hard work to friends, family and the rest of the St. Dominic community.

“My favorite part of being in Band is being able to play lots of different types of music, especially Sousa marches. I also enjoy being able to learn a lot about the history of the songs that we play,” senior clarinet player Caroline Cunningham said.

Computations allow band students the opportunity to further their musical talents. Students are able to audition for district band, a selected ensemble made up of band students throughout the district. This year, seniors Cadence Bell and Caroline Cunningham were chosen to participate in the band and perform at Principia this past November.

Whether you want to spend your Friday nights watching a basketball game or just chill in the Performing Arts Center, the St. Dominic Concert Band will be there providing you with beautiful music to fit the moment. Be sure to come out to the Concert Band’s Christmas concert this Sunday at 2:00pm to be blown away by the incredible talent and hard work of St. Dominic students.