CHS band director Kurt Hotelling (standing left) conducts the Superband at the Chief Joyce Dugan Cultural Arts Center on Thursday, March 13. (CCS photo)
Cherokee and Franklin High Schools combined forces to blow audiences away with their big sound at the annual Superband Concert at the Chief Joyce Dugan Cultural Arts Center on Thursday, March 13.
Students practice independently at their school starting in January, and then they come together for a couple of days just before the concert. The pieces chosen for this performance included: Superman, Fanfare for the Common Man, The Great Race, Pinnacle, Mary Poppins Overture and Sax Attack.
Audiences were enthralled by the band under the conduction of CHS conductor Kurt Hotelling and FHS conductor Buddy Huckabee. They have been working together on this project for six years.
“Their ability to bring the students together in such a short time for a big performance like this is commendable. They have done a remarkable job with them, and our community should be proud,” said director of the Chief Joyce Dugan CAC and Cherokee Central Schools Public Relations Yona Wade.
Music and the arts play an important role in the education and development of students. It is a means of expression, and opportunities like this give students a chance to experience the study of music on another level.
“Without music, people could not think, communicate or express themselves. Music gives students…the opportunity to share feelings and emotions to others,” said Huckabee.
Huckabee’s band competes in six events from Charlotte to Atlanta, plays football games, and parades. He loves the CAC facility and is glad his students have the opportunity to meet other students and play fun music without having to worry about judges all the time.
Hotelling has been in education since 1987. He earned his degrees at University of NC School of the Arts and Applachian State University. He can play all instruments, but he prefers low brass. He shares his passion of music with a passion for writing epic adventure and fantasy.
“Music brings out my passion for life,” said Hotelling.
He firmly believes in the benefits music brings to education. He said music is a “brain booster” and reinforces all the academics.
CHS Junior Tahnaya Perez plays trumpet with the band and is participating in her fourth year of Superband. She enjoys the chance to team up with another school and cannot wait until next year.
FHS Sophomore Erin McCall plays oboe and is also participating in her fourth year with Superband. She enjoys getting to meet everyone and “having a bigger family” to play music. She plans to pursue music in college and hopes to eventually open an arts academy.
The study of music and band performance are difficult fields to master. Many spend a lifetime practicing and perfecting their art. They should each be commended for their hard work and dedication.
Come out and support the bands and let them know how much you appreciate them. You can see them at competitions, annual concerts, and football games. Watch the calendars on the websites for Cherokee Central Schools and Franklin High School to the Marching Braves and Panthers in action.
– Cherokee Central Schools
