With the pandemic, many instruments were learned, tuned, and performed over Zoom. However, on Nov. 3, the bands were able to perform in front of a full house.

After 18 months without one, Huntley’s bands finally got the performance they had been waiting for. With five different groups and a total of 11 songs, the concert was what everyone had been waiting for.

Peppy, upbeat songs like “The Blues Walk” and “Pick Up the Pieces,” performed by the jazz band, had the audience tapping their feet and dancing in their seats. “The Seal Lullaby,” performed by the wind ensemble, created a slow, calming rhythm that soothed the audience. 

One song, “Escaping A Nightmare,” had listeners on the edge of their seats, trying to figure out what happens next. The song follows the pacing and story of someone who woke up trapped and fought their way out. This song was performed by the percussion ensemble, a mix of percussionists from symphonic band and wind ensemble. 

Like the other songs performed, one of the students introduced the piece through its story and history. Senior Cade Dees introduced the story of the piece with comedy and suspense, staying focused even when faced with technical difficulties.

“I guess it didn’t like what I said,” Dees said after the speakers let out a loud, high-pitched noise.

The song begins strong, with a boom of realization as the subject wakes up and finds themself imprisoned.

The ensemble made use of a high, staccato rhythm to raise suspense in the audience, while a steady, low beat marked the progression of the escape. The song makes a climb, in tempo and instruments, leading to the mezzo-forte climax, a thrilling conclusion to the outstanding piece that leaves the audience convinced the subject of the song escaped their imprisonment.

Much like the band finally escaped quarantine. However, there is still a pandemic, and some things did change for the concert.

Directors Kevin Krivosik and Rick Rohde were good examples to their students, wearing their masks throughout the performance. When not actively playing a wind or brass instrument, all the performers wore masks, mostly black ones that matched the attire of the band.

Many brass instruments, such as a tuba or trombone, featured a black covering that aimed to protect against airborne pathogens that would come from the player. Despite all this, the performers had fun, finally getting to showcase their talent with the help of Performing Arts Center director Lorie Woods, as well as parent volunteers who run the band booster programs.

“I just want to say thanks to everyone. This was a great last-first concert,” senior tuba-player Holly Holterhaus said.

After the success of last night, students can look forward to more performances to come next semester.