The Riley High School (RHS) auditorium came alive with music and holiday spirit on Thursday, December 12, as the Riley Instrumental Ensembles showcased their talent and hard work during the Winter Concert. Featuring the Jazz Band, Concert Band, and Orchestra, the concert included a variety of tunes that set the tone for the season.
“I like all the music of the season,” RHS Band Director Kyle Vogele said. “I want to make sure that we honor the diversity we have in our community by programming selections that maybe are a little bit off the beaten path — songs that are not as familiar or recognizable — along with music that will open our students’ ears to different time signatures and types of rhythmic patterns.”
After all their hard work, RHS students — donning Santa hats and elf ears — were eager to showcase their music.
The concert began with the Jazz Band, and the Orchestra followed — both under the direction of RHS Associate Band Director Larry Vanore. As each ensemble played its lively selections, the auditorium filled with festive energy.
The evening concluded with the Concert Band performing an exciting three-piece set.
When it came to selecting the music for the Concert Band this year, things were a little different. As the former South Bend Community School Corporation school, Clay High School, closed its doors at the end of the 2023-24 school year, RHS inherited Clay’s Fine Arts magnet program along with some students and another band director.
“This year, we have three directors working with the band, which is something new,” Vogele said. “Each of us chose a piece for the Concert Band performance tonight that we felt would gel together, and we collaborated on that process. We hoped to select repertoire that honors the spirit of the season.”
The Concert Band took the stage and Vogele began directing his selection, “Arctic Landscapes.” Before moving to the next song, Vogele took a moment to introduce Nathanael Sudduth, their newest assistant band director. Sudduth then began directing his selection, “Celtic Carol.” Lastly, Vanore came back to direct his chosen piece, “Selections from ‘The Polar Express.’”
In closing, the band played the RHS school song, “Wave the Flag.” The audience was on their feet, clapping along and filled with school pride and holiday spirit.
“Concerts are special,” Vogele said. “In a concert, we want to share our efforts with the audience while bringing them a respite from their daily lives. At the same time, we get to enjoy the experience ourselves.”
For more information about the Riley High School Instrumental Ensemble and upcoming performances, visit its website.