From NPR: “I’m not much of an opera buff, but I’ve been going to concerts and musicals for decades, and I’d give anything to see another encore. I’ve only ever seen one real, audience-driven, can’t-go-on-with-the-show-until-you-sing-it-again (because encore means again) showstopper. Lots of fake ones, though. And until I saw the genuine article, I used to think they were real.” NPR: Encore!...

From the Huffington Post: “Ah, the healing power of music. Whether it’s the perfect song after a bad break-up, or something relaxing to listen to while you study, there are endless ways that music makes our hearts and souls feel better. But research shows that music can have benefits for our bodies, too. The Mayo Clinic points out that music can have effects ranging from reducing feelings of physical pain to boosting memory....

An interesting story on the musicians of the Titanic and their final performance. NPR: Remembering The Titanic’s Intrepid Bandleader

ISSMA has released State Solo & Ensemble information. Please see the document below for information, times, and building maps. Please feel free to direct any questions to Mr. Gumula. Good luck to all! Download (PDF, 665.48KB)

ISSMA has published information for District Solo and Ensemble to be held at the University of Evansville on 11 February 2012. Times and a campus map are available below. Download (PDF, 308.53KB)

Here is one of my all-time favorite pieces of music performed by the YouTube Virtual Choir as directed by composer Eric Whitacre. A gorgeous piece of music made even more compelling by the coming-together of hundreds of voices from around the world. Be sure to check it...

Harrison won their game this evening against Castle and will play in the finals Saturday at Harrison. Call time for pep band is 5:30 PM.