Dr. Luis Zuniga’s concert band class held an impromptu performance on the steps of the Student Services building last Thursday, Nov.1.

“We just wanted to get out of the music area and get out and perform,” said Zuniga.

After a quick setup, the band performed “Suite from Symphonie Fantastique” by Hector Berlioz, a series of seasonal pieces they have been working on this semester.  

The first was “I. A Ball” a piece which began with a slow build until it broke into an upbeat and bouncy tune. The second was “II. March to the Scaffold” which sounded exactly as it was titled. With the drums carrying the song to a powerful climax, briefly dropping for what one would describe as a slow march, the song then erupted again into a victorious tune. The last piece “III. A Witch’s Sabbath” sounded eerie, just the right tone to finish off a week that celebrated both Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos.

The performance came as a pleasant surprise both to the band and the onlookers who gathered to watch. The musicians, who usually have class indoors, appreciated being able to play in the fresh evening air.

“I feel like it’s good to get outdoors every now and then,” said musician Tyler Wright.

The experience was especially novel for the musician for multiple reasons.

“We haven’t done a live performance yet and I’m excited,” Wright continued. “It’s my first live performance with this concert band.”

Other students saw the impromptu performance not only as an opportunity to get some fresh air, but also to give LMC’s concert band some exposure.  

“I think it’s a great idea to bring awareness to the LMC campus about the types of music the LMC band can play,” said musician Jessica Anderson.

At the beginning of the semester, the class sorts through numerous pieces of music, determining which ones they like and dislike and eventually settling on a piece that really interests them. They have been working on “Suite from Symphonie Fantastique” this entire semester.

“It’s really a staple as far as music’s concerned and so it’s always a great experience to play classics from some of the greatest composers,” Anderson added.

LMC’s concert band will showcase its work at the final concert Monday, Dec. 10. The time and ticket prices have yet to be determined, but those interested in attending can check the Music Department’s event listings here.