Dear Athens Drive students and families,

Our North Carolina Symphony is a treasure to our State and performs regularly just a few miles from many of our homes, at Meymandi Hall in downtown Raleigh. These are musicians who have spent their LIFE immersed in the study and practice of music. They are the “best of the best” and it is inspiring to watch/listen to them perform. Also, the opportunity to hear a LIVE PERFORMANCE is especially thrilling—there is an energy that exists that cannot be captured in a recording. Just think, over 100 musicians are playing together FOR YOU!

As many of you know, I am a classical music enthusiast. It was a course in classical music that I took as a junior in high school that fired by passion for this genre of music AND for a career as a music educator. Last year during the remote learning period, I devoted my energy into bringing classical music into the hearts and minds of our students. I continue to believe that it was the BEST option available—if we could not play together, we can at least LISTEN together. Throughout the year, we explored hundreds of masterworks and learned about the lives of these remarkable composers.

I am excited to announce that I have worked out an agreement with the NC Symphony to allow our Athens Band students and family members to attend select concerts for a vastly reduced price. It may be more than a movie ticket; but consider what you are getting! If you combine it with a meal, it’s a very reasonable night out (date night for you older kids!).

The first available concert is FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2nd at 8:00pm. The Symphony and the Master Chorale are performing one of the most inspiring works of music ever conceived: HANDEL’S “MESSIAH.” (The centerpiece of which is the “Hallelujah Chorus.”) The cost of this program for our students and families is $27 each.

This is truly one of the most AWESOME works for chorus and orchestra ever written. The selections in this work chronicle the life of Christ and are very attractive. In some movements, the music actually mimics the words: For example, in the song “Every Valley Should be Exalted,” the music rises and falls as if you are in a valley. What a great work to get you in the holiday spirit!

Here’s the plan: I must have payment (check made payable to the “Athens Drive Band Boosters” or cash) by next FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 at 3:00pm. I will then call in the order. No money, no ticket. Sorry, but you cannot charge your band account for these tickets. The tickets will be available for you at “will-call” under the name of “Athens Drive Band.” My wife and I will be there to make certain the process goes smoothly, which it always has in the past.

A few other details: Parking is not too expensive; you might even consider carpooling to save $. You can park in the parking garage across the street from Meymandi or the adjacent Education lot (which is less expensive☺). You will need to be dressed “business casual” or nicer… Guys—a nice shirt, pants, shoes; tie is optional… Gals— just dress nice☺ NO TENNIS SHOES, FLIP-FLOPS, SHORTS, JEANS OR TEE SHIRTS! Look nice!

There will be many more opportunities in the spring…and we may be able to get an even better price for these as they will only involve the orchestra (not the chorus). I will let you know in plenty of time!

Hallelujah! We’re going to the Symphony!!!