Local musicians compete in Ellensburg
By Hallie Barta
Goldendale School District music director Doug Siegel chaperoned six musicians to Ellensburg Saturday, to compete in the Yakima Valley Solo/Small Ensemble Contest. The small group included drum soloist Asa Israel; brass trio Stephen Barta, Conner Harris, and Lyssa Garcia; and clarinet duo Shelby Lemley and Jessica Wells.
Lemley and Wells presented "Number Seven" in a collection of classical duets by Domincia Scarletti as the first Goldendale performance of the morning. Both clarinetists were pleased with their exhibition and said it surpassed their expectations.
Barta on the euphonium, Harris on the trumpet, and Garcia on the French horn made up a brass trio with plentiful past experience in this contest. Judged on a rendition of J. S. Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," they went in optimistic, but confessed to being a little nervous. Their fears were quickly allayed by an excellent performance.
Meanwhile, Israel executed a multiple percussion piece titled "Drums Away" by J. A. Coffen. With five separate instruments involved, Israel said the most challenging part was hitting everything at the right time and in the right order. "The experience itself was really beneficial," Israel remarked, "especially getting the chance to observe the skills of the other performers."
The contest is hosted by Central Washington University and attracts about 500 students annually, providing an opportunity for musicians to get an objective assessment of individual strengths and weaknesses with their instrument and style. The highest-rated performers at this contest will move on to state level.
Siegel was impressed by all his students' performances and said, "The kids all played to the top of their form."
Granada Theater to reopen
The Granada Theater in The Dalles will celebrate it's grand re-opening with Hal Ketchum, on April 11. The theater on 2nd has undergone remodeling of the ticket booth and poster display case.
There are also sound system improvements that will provide samples of music from upcoming acts. Included in the acts are Cash'd Out, on May 1, and Mark Chestnutt, on June 20.
Tickets are available on line at www.gorgegranada.com.
Chamber offers readerboard special for Valentine's Day
The GHS Leadership class is putting on a "Senior" Senior Prom on Feb. 14, at the middle school from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. If you are or you know someone who is 60 years old, invite them to this event. There will be a special performance by Dr. James Ogden and refreshments will be available. Contact Senior Services For more inforomation, 773-3757.
The Chamber is having a valentine special for the reader board. Two frames with 34 characters each frame for only $10. Surprise your valentine! Stop by the Chamber Office to submit your message, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Second Thursday Night - Feb. 12, at the Golden Art Gallery: Coming up this month, the show will feature Mardi Gras, a pre-Lenten celebration. Though far from New Orleans, we do know how to party. Circle Feb. 12, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., on your calendar and plan to have fun.
Wines of the Neighborhood will be offered along with assorted hors d'oeuvres.
There will be a meeting on Feb. 19, at 7 a.m. at the new Grange Hall. The meeting is for all volunteer organizations in the community and anybody who is interested in volunteering for one of our community events. If you are a member of an organization or you know someone who is, ask them to send a representative to this meeting.
Jaycees awards banquet is on Feb. 26, at Grace Brethren Community Church, 7 p.m. The entire community is invented to attend this event.
Business-2-Business this month is at Maryhill Winery on Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. Join us for a fun evening of snacks and beverages! Bring your business cards to hand out to people you meet! The entire community is invited to attend this event. |
