Soloist Ivano Ascari and guest conductor Marvis Rorie perform. PN Photo/Jaylana Pough
By Jalayna Pough
The UNCP Concert Band presents ‘Old and New’ at GPAC. This event was directed by Dr. Timothy Altman and showcased guest conductor Marvis Rorie and trumpet soloist Ivano Ascari.
The central theme revolved around a blend of traditional and contemporary hymns. It showcased pieces like ‘Aloft’, ‘Strong’, and others that seamlessly transitioned from older hymns to more modern compositions.
Notably, ‘Fireworks’ was both composed and conducted by Marvis Rorie jr. After earning a music degree from Catawba College, Rorie shifted to UNCP to obtain his teaching certification. Presently, he dedicates his efforts to shaping young musicians as a band director at Chesterfield-Ruby Middle School, even arranging for his students to witness the live performance of ‘Old and New’ ensemble.
“I am very proud of Marvis as a teacher and as a composer,” Dr. Altman said.
Altman organizes these concerts with the aim of providing students an opportunity to showcase their talents and expand their knowledge of concert band literature. Additionally, these concerts offer students the chance to explore various musical genres, including Renaissance, Baroque, and contemporary pieces.
The UNCP Concert Band is open to all students, regardless of major, to be a part of. You can join the band by auditioning.
“We support new music and have performed two composed pieces in the last year,” Dr Altman said.
Altman selects music for his students to perform by considering what might be valuable for them to teach as future public school educators. He also chooses music that presents rhythmic and harmonic challenges to help his students develop their musical skills.
A significant number of students, particularly those not enrolled in the concert band but participating in his music and jazz appreciation courses, are mandated to attend concert ensemble performances as a homework assignment, where they are expected to provide concert reviews.
The concert band holds a minimum of two regular concerts each semester. The upcoming Holiday Extravaganza on Dec 1, will be hosted at GPAC. This performance will serve as a fundraiser to support scholarships for music students, there will be an admission fee of $15.