Music Department News
Live Music Returns to Assembly Hall for Annual Christmas Concert
For the first time since December 2019, the entire NCHS Music Department was able to gather and perform a concert in Assembly Hall. Last year, due to Covid-19 capacity restrictions, the music ensembles you see at your right were broken into even smaller groups, and they had to perform separately in several areas of the building. And since there could be no crowds, the concert was also live-streamed. This year, all groups performed together, and crowds returned - - it felt like Christmas!
You can still enjoy the concert - whether you missed it or not - because Mr. Browne gave us the gift of another live-streamed concert. It also makes great background music while you're trying to study.
Photo Credit: NCHS Music Facebook Page
NCHS Concert Band performs "Sleigh Ride," "The First Noel," and "Christmas Parade Sequence."
NCHS Jazz Band performs "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year."
NCHS Mixed Choir performs "Carol of the Drum," "Making Christmas," and "We Need a Little Christmas."
NCHS Music 1 Performs "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies."
While you patiently wait for December 12, enjoy these Christmas classics.
NCHS Musicians Perform at Prairie Honor Band
Spending the day meeting new people and playing music is fun, but so is taking a break with your friends.
This year's selections for the Prairie Honor Band Performance were:
Carnegie Anthem, by William Owens
Journey to the Cathedrals, by Dean Smith
Movement 2: Westminster Abbey
Movement 5: Notre Dame
Grace Before Sleep, by Susan LaBarr
The Machine Awakes, by Steven Bryant
Military Escort, by Harold Bennett
Please enjoy a sample of the music selection for this year's band: Grace Before Sleep.
Photo Credits: Kade Kasban, Emma Grathwohl, and Garrett Williamson
The best of the best high school musicians in our area are assembled on Tuesday, November 23, to practice and perform in the annual Prairie Honor Band. What's incredible about an event like this is that these musicians from different schools never met before this event, and after one day working together they sound like professional musicians who have played together for years. Junior Emma Grathwohl reflected, "The best part of the entire day was getting to talk with other people from surrounding schools and having everyone back together to do what we are passionate about, playing music. It was so amazing to be one step closer to a sense of normalcy." Hard work provides its own well deserved rewards, and you earned this reward. Congratulations on this honor, NCHS Musicians!
Everyone looks ready to go...so serious and professional...
...just kidding...we're having fun, too.
Photo Credit: Facebook
Image Credit: Google Images
Two NCHS Musicians Headed to STATE
Two NCHS musicians know and have what it takes to compete at the highest level in high school music...junior Garrett Williamson and senior Adam Anderson demonstrated their talent and dedication at the ILMEA Festival on Saturday, November 20 and were awarded a spot in the ILMEA State Choir. In January 2022 they will travel to the Civic Center Arena in Peoria and "will complete with some of the best vocalists in the state," shared NCHS Director Steve Browne. Congratulations, gentlemen.
NCHS Musicians Perform at ILMEA
Trent Browne was the lone instrumentalist from NCHS. Adding life to the choir were Brooke Harris, Emma Grathwohl, Seth Henderson, Garrett Williamson, Adam Anderson, Calista Herrmann, and Sophie White.
NCHS Musicians spent Saturday working with world class musicians at the Illinois Music Educators Association Festival. A LIVE sold out performance was held Saturday evening. The ILMEA Orchestra even had a special guest drummer - Mr. Browne. He filled in for a student from another school who could not attend due to Covid. Mr. Browne also split his time between ILMEA and NCHS to get the Marching Hornets off on the right foot at Saturday's playoff game before returning to ILMEA to practice and perform. Congratulations, musicians, on this honor, and thank you for your continued hard work for the NCHS Music Department.
Photo Credit: Social Media
Don't Miss Out on Elf, The Musical
NCHS students were back on stage the weekend of November 12 - 14th for three fabulous performances of the heartwarming and festive rendition of Elf. And, NCHS, you've got only ONE chance left to see it.
ON STAGE HIGHLIGHTS
OFF STAGE HIGHLIGHTS
"Who knew bald caps could spread so much Christmas cheer?!" asks Katie of her and Tanner's prepping for their performance.
Someone is a little tall to be an elf?!
...MAGIC HAPPENS ON STAGE...
Buddy, Jovie, and the Macy's elves are so excited for Santa's arrival.
The Holiday SANTAS are saddened at the lack of Christmas spirit in the children.
Michael Hobbs played by freshman Addison Browne is in need of serious help with his "flying thing."
Don't let the curtain CLOSE on your last chance to see Elf this Friday, November 19.
...AND MAGIC (AND A LITTLE COOKIE TRAGEDY) HAPPEN BACKSTAGE...
It's all sparklejolly until the cookie crumbles.
Co-Director Steve Browne inspires the cast and crew members before a production.
Photo Credit: Katie Mason and Jennifer Brink
We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup!
~ Buddy, the Elf
School song 11-13NCHS School Song performed by the NCHS band.
Video Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum
Continuous Support from the Music Program
Saturday's football game against the Pana Panthers provided what could have been some obstacles for the NCHS band. First, it was a chilly day...moving those fingers on the keys and playing those horns cannot be easy with that cold air. Secondly, just hours after the football game ended, many of these same band members were involved in the fourth on-stage performance of Elf, The Musical. On-stage performances don't just start when the curtain rises either. The stage and props must be prepped, make up and hair must be perfected, lights and sounds must be checked, and students must be well-nourished and hydrated. Well, it should come as no surprise that the band was able to vanquish* these obstacles all to support their NCHS Hornets.
* (verb) conquer or subdue by superior force
Elf, The Musical, Opens To BIG First Weekend Crowds
Love to sing? Don't want to be a "cotton-headed ninny muggins?" Looking for some festive spirit? Elf, The Musical can most assuredly check all of those boxes. The first shows on November 8 and 9th were huge successes. Upcoming dates are November 12 - 14th and November 19th. This is a musical production that you don't want to miss. See Mrs. Williamson or Mr. Browne for $6 tickets or buy your $7 tickets at the door.
Buddy, the Elf, (played by junior Garrett Williamson) learns from Santa (played by junior Seth Henderson) in the opening scenes about how he came to be in Santa Town.
...the masks are a sure obstacle to the actors / actresses in that facial expressions are not as visible so the eyes are are even more important than ever in conveying emotions...
...the cast and crew deserves and enjoys some after production relaxation and fun...
...the Marching Band Competition Quartet has a little different look going on here...
...the magic on stage doesn't happen without these key players behind the scenes...
...ELF REQUIREMENT: shoes...Co-directors Mrs. Williamson and Mr. Browne "attach" Lainey's and Addison's shoes...
...the hair and makeup crew is so busy that they can't even stop for a bite as Becca doesn't even stop for a second on Sophie's hair as Mady provides her with sustenance*
Photo Credit: Madisyn Farley and Facebook
...be certain to check back next week for more photos of the on-stage production of Elf, The Musical...
* (noun) nourishment
Not sure who needs an exorcist more: the possessed in the Haunted Woods, or Jill and Emma?
"That's a 'no' for me."
~Everyone who sees Jason Voorhees.
Tri-M Haunted Woods is a Spook-tacular Success
The feedback was overwhelming: Do this again next year! Between the hayride, hot chocolate, and the atmosphere of the woods, the scares and fun were "to die for." Great work, Tri-M, and thank you to all who donated to help Tri-M raise money for New York.
Abby, Sophie, and Makalya decorate the woods with spooky props. Do we want to know what all of those dolls are for?
Photo Credit: Katie Mason
Mr. Browne, Drum Majors Emma and Trevor, and Mrs. Goostree celebrate post-awards with their newly won hardware.
Drum Majors Emma and Trevor pose with our Solo of the Day winners Adam, Seth, Garrett, and Trent.
Photo Credits: Mr. Browne and Mrs. Goostree
Mr. Browne's Daily Reminder for 2021:
"Do the small things right, every time."
Marching Hornets Finish with a Sweep!
Pinckneyville's Mardi Gras Marching Competition rounded out the season for this hard working group, and all of the best was left on the field. For their final performance of "Happy Days," The Marching Hornets earned Best Percussion, Best Drum Majors, Best Color Guard, and First Place in Class A Competition. Additionally, the singing quartet of Trent Browne, Seth Henderson, Adam Anderson, and Garrett Williamson won the award of Soloist of the Day for their Sh-Boom vocals. Thanks for an outstanding season, Marching Hornets!
🎵 We are Family 🎵
Friday Night Lights are a highlight of the Marching Band Season. Band and Guard love to get loud to confuse our opponent when they're on offense, and they love to celebrate Hornet first downs. They will play Minnesota Rouser until their lips fall off when the Hornets are scoring touchdown after touchdown. But what this Tik Tok by Sophomore Merytt Zgonina shows, is that the Marching Hornets are a family of people who just like to have fun, too. Enjoy this flashback of fun with her cool glasses from the final regular season game of the football season.
"Some people make your laugh a little louder, your smile a little brighter, and your life a little better."
~Unknown
IMG_64616661.MOV
These Haunted Woods are Eerie-sistible
Tri-M members are testing out the wagon and putting the finishing touches on the Haunted Woods. Don't forget to bundle up, grab a friend or two, and start your journey at the Music Pavilion behind the school Friday, October 29 or Saturday, October 30. The frights last from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Attend this event, if you dare!
Photo Credit: Becca Shopinski
Set Design is Decking the Halls for ELF!
Photo Credit: Katie Mason
When we view a production, we don't always think about all of the behind the scenes touches necessary to set the mood for the audience. Enjoy this sneak peak of the hours of work students like Leo (left) are dedicating to making spirits bright for this fun holiday production.
Junior Bobbie Matlock and Senior Trevor Siliven approve of our mystery musicians and award them the
GOLD STAR OF THE DAY AWARD!!
Photo Credit: Bobbie Matlock
Mystery Musicians
At Friday night's football game against the Frankfort Redbirds, the NCHS band hosted what looked to be two mystery musicians. BUT upon closer inspection, we can clearly see that these musicians are actually Color Guard Coach Mrs. Michele Goostree and Band Director Mr. Steve Browne.
When the need arose for these two to join the pit for the halftime show, there was no hesitation. WELL, MAYBE A LITTLE hesitation as they had to find uniforms in their size amongst the extra band uniforms.
But once they were all properly suited up, they jumped right into the pit and assumed their musician roles under the skilled leadership and direction of drum majors Trevor Siliven and Emma Grathwohl.
Are You Ready for a Spooky Experience?
New and improved, Tri-M’s annual Haunted House is back with a twist! Instead of a Haunted House, this year will be a Haunted Woods. Tri-M, an Honor Society specifically for musicians, has prepared a scary fundraiser for only five dollars. Tri-M is using this money to help raise money for the New York trip the band is taking in the spring. President Trent Browne and Vice President Adam Anderson both encourage everyone in our community to participate in helping raise money for the music program. They also hope people will enjoy this revamped version of the previous Haunted House. “The Haunted Woods is new and not like anything that we’ve done in previous years. It’s more of a natural scare and is a whole new feeling,” Trent Browne says.
How can you participate? On October 29th or 30th, come to the Music Pavilion behind NCHS between 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. to begin the frightening tour. At the pavilion, hot chocolate and snacks will be provided, and you can hop on a hayride to the Haunted Woods location. One of many Tri-M seniors, Calista Herrmann, believes that you should come to the Haunted Woods, not only in support of the music community, but to get a good scare!
By Lainey Fletcher, Class of 2025
...if one door closes and another one opens...
...start worrying coz your house in probably haunted...
...behind the scenes prep work...
...senior Adam Anderson strongholds an entire tree branch...
...for the haunted woods...
...junior Noah Frederking snips a little here and a little there...
Photo Credit: Emma Grathwohl
NCHS Students Selected for ILMEA
The Illinois Music Educators Association has selected eight NCHS musicians to participate in the ILMEA Festival on November 20, 2021. Students were selected through an audition process that showcased their hard work and talent. Students will spend the day working with world class musicians and perform for a LIVE audience.
~ CONGRATULATIONS, MUSICIANS! ~
Emma Grathwohl ~ Adam Anderson ~ Seth Henderson
Trent Browne (band) ~ Calista Herrmann
Sophie White ~ Garrett Williamson ~ Brooke Harris
🎵 🎵 🎵 🎵 🎵
Game On In Effingham
The Marching Hornets headed to Effingham, Illinois to face off against bands from across the region in the Effingham Marching Invitational on Saturday, October 16, 2021.
NCHS had their game faces on for sure on this beautiful day as they won second place overall out of eighteen bands. Color Guard and Percussion, two groups judged both individually as well as with the entire marching band, finished second and third respectively in Class 3A.
NCHS Marching Competition Seniors
Photo Credit: Facebook
"The Best Way to Spread Christmas Cheer is Singing Loudly for All to Hear."
Get ready, NCHS. Elf, The Musical is coming. This production is a fun twist off the movie Elf. While Buddy, played by junior Garret Williamson, heads to New York to find his dad, he finds love, family, and brings Christmas spirit to New York. Now, of course there's got to be problems involved when you mix an Elf into ‘normal’ society. For example, Buddy’s dad only ever works and has no Christmas spirit. According to Mr. Browne, musical director, this production is a “chance for students to see their peers perform something at a very high level.” Mrs. Wiilliamson, also the director, claims this musical is “the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season!”
Students have been very busy working to make this production a success. According to senior Calista Herrmann and junior Abby Ferrell one of the major difficulties to put on this show is Covid-19 and face masks. Calista mentions how “the whole cast has to try to make their eyes as dramatic as possible so the audience can distinguish the emotions.” From a backstage crew point of view, Abby shared that one difficulty with the face masks is “having to do makeup on only half the face.”
Performance dates are November 6-7, 12 - 14, and 19. You can buy a ticket in advance for $7.00 at the main office, from Mr. Browne, or from Mrs. Williamson. Tickets can also be purchased at the door each night (until sold out) for $8.00.
Article By Mady Farley, Class of 2023
Photo Credit: Katelyn Mason and Mady Farley
NCHS Students Audition for ILMEA
The Illinois Music Educators Association hosts a festival every year, and select musicians can audition for the festival. This year's auditions were held virtually, and NCHS musicians embraced this opportunity to showcase their hard work and talents. Music Director Steve Browne posted: "Just being brave enough and dedicated enough to go through this process is an outstanding accomplishment." The musicians will find out in a week or so if they have been selected to participate in the ILMEA Festival, which hopefully will be held in person this year at either SIU-C or SIU-E.
NCHS Students Who Auditioned for ILMEA
Emma Grathwohl ~ Adam Anderson ~ Seth Henderson
Trent Browne ~ Addison Povolish ~ Emma Kwiatkowski
Katelyn Mason ~ Calista Herrmann ~ Tessa Kellerman
Sophie White ~ Garrett Williamson ~ Abby Ferrell
~ Brooke Harris ~
~ BEST OF LUCK TO ALL OF YOU ~
It's All About the Support...
You can't miss it that the NCHS Drumline controls the hallways each Friday morning during football season. BUT let's not overlook those students who are marching behind them...chanting to the cadence and supporting their fellow NCHS musicians and NCHS athletes. Kudos to the entire music program.
Video Credit: Mrs. Kollbaum
Band
Chloe and Leo
Tanner and Jaylin
NCHS Drumline Performs at NCHS Lupus Awareness Night in the Assembly Hall
Trent, Seth, and Garrett, a quartet (minus Adam), are an integral part of the Hornet Marching Competition program. They entertained the crowd at the Hornette volleyball game.
Wheat Festival Parade...before the rain
Rain OR Shine...The NCHS Marching Hornets Never Stop
Wheat Festival Parade...during the deluge*
* (noun) a drenching rain
"Buddy, the Elf, what's your favorite color!"
...Elf, The Musical coming to NCHS November 5 - 7 and November 12 - 14...
"I just like to smile. Smiling is my favorite."
~ Buddy, the Elf
The NCHS Marching Hornets Are Back, Baaaabbbbyyyy!!!!!
After nearly a year off from performing in numerous traditional marching competitions due to COVID-19 restrictions set in the 2020 - 2021, the NCHS Marching Hornets competed at the O'Fallon Marching Competition on Saturday, 9/11/21. Led by senior drum majors Trevor Siliven and Emma Grathwohl, the Marching Hornets finished with their BEST finish ever at this particular competition. Music director Steve Browne posted on social media: "We just won best general effect, best color guard, and 2nd in class. This is the best finish we have ever had in O’Fallon. We competed against Monticello. They have been third in the nation for the last three years BOA. They beat us by less than a point. Proud of these Marching Hornets." And wow...Mr. Browne has every right to be proud of these Marching Hornets. They performed a stellar 1950s-themed half-time show at the Hornet football game vs. the Wesclin Warriors just the night before and turned around and put on a marching competition show to be proud of.
...click the images above scroll...