Band students represent our community well at Epcot performance
Disney trip provides great memories
May 08, 2008
DISNEY WORLD STORY
It was a performance trip of a lifetime for students in the
Kalkaska High School Jazz and Symphonic Bands. Following a
successful audition and acceptance to perform at Disney musicians
in the KHS Bands had been actively fundraising and rehearsing for
their March 29 performance on the Future World Stage at
Epcot.
“As we're walking in
tuxedos with instrument and music in hand nearing
the backstage approach we see the performance schedule sign
that reads: Today's music includes groups from Kalkaska, New
York and Japan! It was in the mid-80's,
sunny and I couldn't have been more proud of everyone's effort
and what an honor of being selected to play for the 2nd
time at Disney!” stated Director of Bands Mr. Craig M.
Chissus.
Although many students favored the rides and attractions, one
student, Junior Drum Major James Morrison stated, “my favorite part
of the trip was performing on Future World Stage because that was
the only part of the trip I will never be able to do again.”
Expressing her gratitude, freshman clarinetist, Olivia Marvin said,
“The trip wouldn't have been possible if it wasn't for Mr. and Mrs.
Chissus, the chaperones and all others who helped in any way.
Their help was greatly appreciated.” The cost of the trip
originally began at over $700 and through small changes to the
itinerary and with help from various businesses, charitable
organizations and compassionate individuals; the cost went down to
just $500. That covered everything from the fuel, motor
coach, four drivers, lodging; night security, a three-day
park pass and everyone ate!
Freshman flutist, Shelby Osborne said, “All the 56 people who went
to Florida had a great time! They especially loved the warm
weather and the break from the snow in Michigan.” Sophomore
tenor saxophonist Kacy Huddleston stated, “The Disney trip was an
unforgettable learning experience on so many different
levels. Beyond the fact of the band performing in an
unfamiliar environment, the trip extended the students knowledge
into different cultures.”
Flutists Kaley Baldwin
and Erin Park agreed, saying, “Exploring the different cultures in
Disney's Epcot center was a real experience I will always remember
(Park)...It was interesting being in an environment where so many
people didn't speak English (Baldwin)”.
Senior Alto Saxophonist, Geoff Bidle, said, “Disney World is a fun
and magical place where dreams can come true. Kalkaska
Bands’ dreams came true this past spring break...it was
AMAZING!”
“There is truth in the saying 'you get out of life what you put into it' and 'life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away,” said Mr. Chissus. “Thank you again Kalkaska community for supporting the Arts and your talented musicians. We were proud to represent you.”
