Dear Athens Drive students and families,

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 the performance of Mozart’s “Requiem” (along with Sibelius’ “Seventh Symphony”) on Friday, February 24th at 8:00pm! The cost of this program for our students and families is $17 each. This was the music that we featured in the opener of our marching band show “Hooked on Classics” this past fall!

Mozart’s “Requiem” is truly one of the most AWESOME works for chorus and orchestra ever written. It is one of Mozart’s most passionate works, as well as the last piece of music that he wrote before his untimely death at age 35! In fact, he did not finish the Requiem; one of his finest students put the final touches on the work based on Mozart’s sketches.

Here’s the plan: I must have payment (check made payable to the “Athens Drive Band Boosters” or cash) by this FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17 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.

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. 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!

What a great coincidence that we get to hear something that we loved playing this past fall in its original context! It just goes to show you that great music will always come back to you. 😊