On Tuesday, April 30, Metzger Middle School celebrated its 20th anniversary, and they did it in a big way - with the world premiere of a piece written for the Metzger Band specifically for the occasion.
The celebration began with 野花社区视频Loretta Davidson welcoming a packed cafeteria full of Mustang families, including the grandchildren of Henry Metzger, the school’s namesake. And, while the 20th anniversary was the reason for the celebration, “Family” could have been the theme of the evening.
As people entered the cafeteria, guests were greeted by Mustang Cheerleaders and treated to the sounds of the Wagner High Band and Metzger Honor Orchestra and Band. The Metzger LOTC presented the colors, the Competition Choir sang the Star Spangled Banner and student art was showcased around the room. Former Metzger students and staff were in attendance, both in the audience and playing with the Metzger Bands.
The massive undertaking was largely due to the efforts of Metzger Head Band Director John Robertson.
“When Ms. Davidson told me it was going to be our 20th anniversary and we needed to do something big, I had some big ideas,” Robertson said.
Robertson met composer JaRod Hall the year before when the Mustang Honors Band played one of his pieces and Hall came to MMS to work on it with the students.
“After seeing him interact with the kids over just one hour, I knew I wanted to commission him to compose a piece for the 20th anniversary,” Robertson said.
After almost a year of collaboration between Hall, Robertson and Assistant Band Director Bryant Aynes, “Rizz”, was composed for the Metzger Band to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the middle school. “Rizz” is a contemporary piece with a funk/jazz feel that allowed the students to learn new styles and improvisation.
The piece was a perfect tribute to Metzger Middle School's past and future.
JaRod Hall was not only at the premiere of his piece but also played in the trombone section with the Symphonic and Honors Bands, an experience not afforded to many middle school musicians.
Throughout the event, a slide show featured current photos and occupations of former Metzger Band members.
“It is so gratifying to see former students doing amazing things. We have actors, musicians, fighter pilots - just so many successful Metzger alumni. Tonight is a testament to the 20 years of students and teachers learning and working at Metzger Middle School.,” Davidson said.
It was a night full of pride for the generations of students who have been a part of the Metzger Family. There were many hugs, smiles, stories and even a few tears. Having Henry Metzger’s grandchildren; Jeff Albrecht, Cheryl Barnett, Celeste Salge and Olga Rhodes in attendance added an even greater feeling of being a Metzger Family to the celebration.
“Last night was the best of public education. Our students and their dedicated teachers shined brightly and represented our legacy well. The composition commissioned for this occasion will stand the test of time, just as Metzger Middle School has stood for 20 years and will continue to stand for many more years to come,” Davidson said.
