Performing to a "standing room only" crowd that spilled into the hallway of the Peoria Civic Center, the DGN Jazz Ensemble inspired hundreds of music teachers and professional performers attending the 2014 Illinois Music Education Conference.
From the opening riffs of the Count Basie band's "Kansas City Shout," through the culminating Tenor Sax battle in the "Overture to the Royal Mongolian Suma Foosball Festival," the entire band played with passion, precision, and mature musicianship.
Thanks to the wonderful support of BandSource in Downers Grove, the band was privileged to share the stage with two incredible guest artists during their IMEC set: Mark Colby (Tenor Sax) and Fareed Haque (Guitar). Both artists captivated the audience with their incredible renditions of "Riley's Thang" (Colby) and "Libertango" (Haque).
The capacity crowd leapt to their feet at the conclusion of the band's performance, affirming for each DGN musician the impact they had made on those in attendance today.
A special thanks is extended, on behalf of the band, to all of the parents who made the trip to Peoria to support the performance, as well as Mrs. Kristin Bormann - DGN Associate Principal for Student Activities - who was in attendance this afternoon.
Following the performance, band members celebrated at a famous Peoria restaurant: Alexander's Steak House.
Congratulations to all students and staff for a memorable performance at the Illinois Music Education Conference.
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