Article from May 2003
Spring Concert Entertains a Crowd
Langlois – The Pacific High School gym was filled with music and nearly 300 concertgoers Wednesday, May 21, as the Spring Band Program was performed under the direction of Will Jarvis.
Students grades five through twelve performed solos, duets and ensemble pieces in addition to a wide array of selections played by the elementary, middle and high school bands.
Musical highlights included original compositions and college-level classical pieces. “I’m very satisfied with the performances and pleased with the effort put in by the students. Many took it upon themselves to get in extra practice time,” Jarvis commended.
This year’s coveted John Philip Sousa Award was earned by seniors Anthony Pagano, trumpet, and Tara Panter, flute. “Both students are outstanding in all academic areas,” Jarvis said, “and have also accumulated above and beyond the required number of community service hours required for graduation.” Pagano and Panter have held offices in and been assets to the student body, student government, graduation committee and the band program.
Next year is shaping up nicely as the numbers of students participating in the band program continue to climb. When Jarvis first took over the program in 1999, there were 15, 18 and 16 students, respectively, in elementary, middle school and high school band classes. According to pre-registration tallies, numbers have grown to 29 beginning fifth-grade students and 43 sixth- through eighth-grade students. High school estimates are around 20 students.
The middle school band brought the year to a close by performing “Pomp and Circumstance” at high school graduation ceremonies Friday evening. “I’m proud of my kids because of the hundred and ten percent they give,” Jarvis said.