Spring Band Concert Is Held

Last Friday, the Monticello Community Band presented its International Spring Concert featuring the Jasper County High School percussion ensemble at the Jasper County High School auditorium.

The concert featured music from around the world, and attendees learned how to say “hello” in several different languages. In addition, the group learned about some different music traditions and dance traditions. For example, in studying the music of the middle east, Morad El-Jourbagy came forward and played a drum in the style he learned growing up in Egypt.

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Jehan El-Jourbagy, community band conductor, demonstrated a belly-dance-type dance, saying not all belly-dancing is risque; it is done at family gatherings, too. And, Lawrence of Arabia (left) showed up for that part of the concert, surprising even the director.

Ms. El-Jourbagy also demonstrated another dance move seen in South America.

During Friday’s concert, two seniors were awarded scholarships from the community band. They were Olivia Aldridge and Chelsea Kamplain.

To qualify for the scholarship, a student must play with the community band for at least five concerts, and be at all rehearsals for those concerts, meaning they must have been active in community band for about a year and a half, explained Ms. El-Jourbagy.

The next concert is planned for Thursday, July 4, with picnicking beginning about 6 p.m., the Snap’n Turtle Children’s Parade at 6:45 p.m., and the patriotic concert at 7 p.m.