Young Musicians in Perfect “Form”

On Tuesday, March 24, parents, siblings, and friends of area musicians gathered together for a night of great music in the Old Rochester Regional High School auditorium. This marked the annual FORM (Friends of Old Rochester Music) Instrumental Concert, which brings together students not only from ORRHS and ORRJHS, but also Rochester Memorial School, Sippican Elementary School and Old Hammondtown School.

The night culminated with a performance of the Old Rochester Regional Concert Band, which brought together students from all schools into one great big performance. It was a fitting way to end a night that’s not only a celebration of music, but also the unity of the area schools that the FORM program works so wonderfully to aid.

Starting off the show was Old Hammondtown School. The band for the Mattapoisett schools was led by Mrs. Emily Lafleur, and they performed the songs ‘Honor March’ and ‘Gathering in the Glen.’ They were followed by Sippican School, performing ‘Iron Heart’ and ‘Mallet Maniacs,’ led by conductor Mrs. Hannah Moore. Rochester Memorial was up next. Led by Mrs. Chris Williamson, the elementary school band performed the tunes ‘Cardiff Castle’ and ‘Pictures at an Exhibition.’ ORRJHS was split into two sections by grade, but both sections were guided by James Farmer. Grade 7 performed ‘Alamo’ and ‘Avenger,’ and Grade 8’s songs were ‘Emerald Isle’ and ‘Abington Ridge.’

As for the high school band, conducted as always by Mr. Michael Barnicle, they performed ‘Under the Double Eagle’ and ‘Arrows.’ The band played in perfect tempo on both tunes, keeping the crowd entertained. Though they didn’t feature any significant solos, the pieces relied on the teamwork of the ORR band.

A few students from ORR’s band shared their thoughts on the concert. Sophomore Jacob Spevack said the best part of the FORM concert was “watching everything come together,” on what he called “an amazing night.”

Nicole Mattson, a junior saxophone player, commented that her favorite part was “seeing young musicians develop their talents.”

Both offered praise for Mr. Barnicle.

Mattson said that Mr. Barnicle “motivated us to do so well,” and Spevack commented that he “picked out music that was perfect for our ensemble.”

Senior Matt Parisi called Mr. Barnicle “the best.” Parisi said his biggest musical achievement this year was improving his skills at the upright bass. The senior spent the whole summer working on his craft, and the results showed at the concert.

After the high school performers left the stage, the ORR District Concert Band came together to perform. This large ensemble featured musicians from every school, and it was impressive to hear the group sound so well in tandem, despite having so many musicians play at once.

“The best moment of the concert was playing together at the end with all the schools. It was cool to have one great big district band,” said Parisi.

The performance was a testament to not only the hard work and persistence of the musicians, but the dedication and skills of their instructors and the parents who have supported the young musicians every step of the way. On the night of the FORM Instrumental concert, all these factors combined to produce a memorable and entertaining show that has solidified its place in Tri-Town’s culture and tradition.

By Patrick Briand

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