WARSAW — Warsaw Community Schools middle school band students recently concluded their summer band program on Friday, June 23. Both beginner and advanced students took part in practices, a band cookout, trip and concerts.

According to Band Director Joseph Peloza, students in the beginning band began their endeavors with their instruments through practicing out of their books. Peloza noted students made immense progress during their training.

“As a group of beginners just starting, I was impressed by the tone quality they displayed and their focus and attention,” stated Peloza. “I heard many positive comments from parents after our concert. They enjoyed our dramatic opening to the concert as well as the students’ ability to follow my direction quickly. They could not believe that the students had only been playing for a few weeks.”

The advanced band students performed a concert that included a variety of musical styles. Songs included “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “We Will Rock You,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Eye of the Tiger.” Each song had an image that was displayed on the large, black screen in the auditorium during the production.

“The audience especially enjoyed the background image for ‘We Will Rock You,’” explained Peloza. “They (the students) did an amazing job preparing for this concert. I am fortunate to work with a great group of students.”