High Plains Festival brings 21 schools to campus

The final concert, comprised of an honor choir of about 65 students, led by honorary guest conductor Dr. Geoffrey Boers, and an honor band conducted by Chadron State’s Dr. Sid Shuler capped the two-day festival.

Boers, director of choral activities at the University of Washington, travels globally to present clinics and workshops. Under his direction, the choral program at Washington has grown to include nearly 600 singers, nine ensembles conducted by five faculty and the UW Chamber Singers.

The honor choir opened Tuesday’s concert with songs of freedom and spirit, such as “Freedom Train” by Rollo A. Dilworth and “Dreams of Thee” by Eric William Barnum.

Boers believes a choir’s responsibility is more than singing.

“We are the story tellers, we must know this. Choirs are the modern day storytellers. The music contains words, themes and beautiful poetry that tells a story,” Boers said.

Shuler led the band in four numbers including “To Challenge the Sky and Heavens Above” by Robert Smith and “Rippling Watercolors” by Brian Balmages.

Messina Maley, of Gering, Nebraska, played flute for the High Plains Honor Band. Maley, attending her first High Plains Festival, remarked that playing the flute has always been something she enjoyed.

“Even though this is my first festival, playing the flute has always been a great way to escape for me,” said Maley.

The Department of Music will host a duo piano recital in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium Feb. 21 at 3 p.m. The recital will feature pianists Brooks Hafey and Bobby Pace.