Director of Bands Jonathan Poquette worked with Western Alamance Director of Bands Michael Jefferson ’03 in teaching music to high school students.
The Elon Wind Ensemble performed a joint concert with the Western Alamance High School Symphonic Band on Thursday, March 24 featuring music from around the country.
The side-by-side concert cycle allowed Elon’s undergraduates to work with and mentor area high school musicians in playing a range of music by diverse composers. The compositions were influenced by New Orleans and Southern traditions, the canyons and vastness of the west and a march by “American March King” John Phillip Sousa.
Director of Bands Jonathan Poquette worked with Western Alamance Director of Bands Michael Jefferson ’03 in teaching music to high school students. Together, Poquette and Jefferson created, taught and guided both college and high school musicians on this journey. The idea began last fall and culminated in the March 24 concert. The process of practicing and performing together allowed Elon students an opportunity to model high-level musicianship and high schoolers to experience performing with college musicians. Most importantly, it allowed students to interact and develop long-lasting connections and memories.
Poquette plans to continue working and performing with area school bands to increase exposure and the power of music throughout all of Alamance and Guilford counties. Ultimately, he plans to strengthen relationships with Elon and the community and encourage young musicians to continue playing music.