Upcoming Events:
BHS Music Showcase - Tuesday April 4th - 7pm - Tornstrom Auditorium
A Cappella Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Wind Symphony
Welcome to the Brainerd Music Webpage
This site is designed to provided information and resources to students, parents, alumni, and boosters of the Brainerd Public Schools Music Department located in Brainerd, MN. Our department is made up of student performers grades 6-12 and includes 8 Bands, 8 Choirs, 6 Orchestras. We hope you find this site easy to use and informative. Click on any of the links to above for more information.
The 8th Annual BHS Music Showcase!
On Tuesday April 4th, the BHS Music Department will be presenting the 8th Annual Music Showcase. The 7pm concert will feature the A Cappella Choir, Chamber Orchestra and Wind Symphony in Tornstrom Auditorium. These are the three premiere performing ensembles of the Brainerd High School Music Department. Each ensemble will be performing a 15-20 minute set of music that was performed at the Central Lakes Conference Music Festival on Friday March 31st. This is a real "can't miss concert." Come and see the premiere ensembles at the top of their game!
THE BHS MUSIC SHOWCASE
7pm - Tornstrom Auditorium
Tuesday April 4th
THE BHS MUSIC SHOWCASE
7pm - Tornstrom Auditorium
Tuesday April 4th
BHS Jazz Ensemble I Featured
The members of the BHS Jazz Ensemble I were featured at the Friends of the Brainerd Public Library Great Gatsby Event on Friday March 24th at Arrowwood Lodge in Baxter. The band performed music for dancing and enjoyment for one hour. Tickets proceeds supported the Friends of the Brainerd Public Library.
Check out this great video of the event!
BRAINERD DISPATCH VIDEO
Check out this great video of the event!
BRAINERD DISPATCH VIDEO
FMS Students Selected for State Honor Choir
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Eight Forestview students have been selected to represent Brainerd in the American Choral Director's Association "Honor Choir" in Mahtomedi on Saturday, May 6th, 2017 The sixth grade students who were selected to represent Forestview include Noah LaPorte, Eli Laposky, Micah Halbersma, Finn Torkelson, Haddy Aker, Nicole Heitkotter, Peyton Hamlin, Edie Chamberlain, and Ellie Jensen. Over 800 students auditioned for the two choirs each year. Students completed an audition, and were chosen by a panel of vocal instructors across the state.
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Students to Perform in All State Choirs
Theodore Knudson and Stefanie Maas will complete their all state choir experience this Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 with a final performance at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis. Both went through a rigorous audition process last Spring 2016 and attended a week long camp last August in preparation for this upcoming concert. Congratulations Theo and Stefanie!
Forestview Pops Choir
The Forestview 7th and 8th Grade Pops Choir will begin meeting on Wednesday, January 4th at 7:50 am in the FMS Choir Room. Pops Choir is an extra-curricular choir that will be meeting before school on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:50-8:10 a.m. Any student in 7th or 8th grae choir can join Pops Choir. This group focuses specifically on singing pop music, and the group sings high quality, advanced, and difficult music. Pops Choir performs at all 7th and 8th grade concerts. You can find more information in the letter below, or by visiting the Pops Choir Website.
| FMS Pops Choir Letter |
Madrigal Dinner 2016 Tickets On Sale!
Call 454-6200 to reserve your seats
Details on poster below...
Music Coupon Books SOLD OUT!
Thank you for your continued amazing support of our coupon book fundraiser. We are happy to report that books SOLD OUT in record time this year. We plan to order more books for next year and will get the word out early so you can be sure to get one. Again---
THANK YOU!
THANK YOU!
Music Coupon Books are Sale Is Here!
Beginning Friday, September 30th the 2016-17 coupon books will be on sale! These books contain over 300 pages of great values that easily pay for the cost of the book and more! For $25 you can save money while also supporting the students of the Brainerd High School Music Department. For each book sold, 50% of the sale goes to helping students afford instruments, supplies, tours, and many other great musical opportunities.
Coupon books can be purchased from the businesses listed on the poster, from any BHS music student and online by filling out this form. You may also pick up a book at the Brainerd HS Main office during regular business hours.
Buy now before the books sell out!
Order Form
TIME TO ORDER YOUR MUSIC SWEATSHIRT
The BHS Music Department is offering a beautiful 1/4 zip pullover for all 9-12 grade band, choir and orchestra musicians. This design is meant to unite the department and will be used in years to come. Follow the link below to fill out the order form online. Checks should be made payable to your school ensemble (i.e.. Brainerd Band, Brainerd Choir, or Brainerd Orchestra) and turned into the High School main office (Fill out blue envelope, turn in to Shelly). If in multiple ensembles, just pick one and notate on order form. $45 with right sleeve embroidery included. Last name on left sleeve for additional $8.
Order Form
Orders Due By Noon on Wednesday October 19
Order Form
Orders Due By Noon on Wednesday October 19
Lakes Area Music Festival
The Lakes Area Music Festival brings the nation's best performers to the area each summer. Enjoy the last two concerts of the season - all events are free of charge.
August 17, 7 p.m. - Tornstrom Auditorium
Daydreams (Debussy, Strauss, Schubert)
August 20, 7 p.m. and August 21, 2 p.m. - Tornstrom Auditorium
Nightmares & Victory (Saint-Saëns, Prokofiev, Shostakovich)
August 17, 7 p.m. - Tornstrom Auditorium
Daydreams (Debussy, Strauss, Schubert)
August 20, 7 p.m. and August 21, 2 p.m. - Tornstrom Auditorium
Nightmares & Victory (Saint-Saëns, Prokofiev, Shostakovich)
FMS Summer Choir Camp
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Registration is open for Summer Choir Camp at Forestview. Camp is open for students entering 6th Grade in Fall 2016. Camp meets June 8th, 9th, and 10th from 9:00-11:30 AM. We will sing, learn about our voices, read music, and give a mini-concert on Friday. We hope to see you there! Click here for more information: Summer Choir Camp
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Faculty and Friends Recital: You're Invited!
Faculty and Friends of the ISD 181 Music Staff will be presenting a recital to benefit the Brainerd High School food shelf. The concert is on Sunday, May 1st, at 2:00 pm at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Nisswa, MN. Look forward to hearing performances by faculty and supporters of music in Brainerd.
2016-2017 6th Grade Ensemble Registration
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On Monday, April 4th, all 5th grade students at Forestview will attend a concert by the Forestview 8th Grade Band, Choirs, and Orchestra. During the week, students will have a chance to visit the Band, Orchestra, and Choir rooms and learn about joining an ensemble in sixth grade. Registration materials will be available Friday, April 8th. See you in 6th Grade Band, 6th Grade Orchestra, and 6th Grade Choir!
Beginning Band Screening Appointments CLICK HERE
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Forestview 7th and 8th Grade Registration
Registration is now open for 7th and 8th Grade Band, Orchestra, and Choir at Forestview. Parents / Guardians should have received a Skylert with registration info on Friday, February 26th. Registration is due Friday, March 4th. Students may participate in two music ensembles in 7th and 8th Grade. In order to participate in two ensembles, check one of the ensembles during registration, and be sure to note the second ensemble in the "comments" box.
Picture Day Pro Donates to FMS Choirs
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Picture Day Pro, of Brainerd, photographed the Forestview 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Choirs at their first concerts of the year. After each concert, Picture Day Pro sold framed photographs for $10.00, donating 100% of the profit to the Forestview Choir program.
The Forestview Choirs are excited to accept an $800.00 donation from Picture Day Pro, assisting with purchasing choir polo shirts and funding student attendance at the state honor choir. |
BHS Junior Featured in MPR's Minnesota Varsity!
BHS Junior Flautist, Claire Gunsbury, was featured for Minnesota Public Radio's Minnesota Varsity Competition. Minnesota Varsity showcases the top high-school musical talent from Classical Minnesota Public Radio's terrestrial broadcast area. Music students (aged 14-18) are invited to submit a recording of an instrumental or vocal performance of a classical or musical theater work, for evaluation by a panel of MPR judges. Performances can be solo, or with a group, and can be up to 10 minutes in length. Featured artists can be found below:
HEAR CLAIRE'S RECORDING AT CLASSICALMPR.ORG
HEAR CLAIRE'S RECORDING AT CLASSICALMPR.ORG
Hop On The BHS Wind Symphony Fan Bus!
The Brainerd High School Wind Symphony was selected to perform at the 2016 Minnesota Music Educators Association Mid-Winter Clinic. The performance will be Friday Feb. 12th at 2:30pm in the Minneapolis Convention Center Ballroom. The ensemble was selected through a recorded audition process from among bands all across Minnesota. If you are interested in going to this performance and supporting our students, please contact Michele Hilborn in the BHS Activities Office, 218-454-6300, and reserve your spot on the BHS Wind Symphony Fan Bus.
BHS Wind Symphony Fan Bus.
$22 per person.
Bus leaves at 11am, returns at 6:30pm.
Call 218-454-6300.
Please reserve your spot by Monday February 1st.
No hassle of parking or driving in the city! We would love to have a "hometown crowd" at this very special concert. Tickets to the event are free to supporters of the BHS Wind Symphony but need to be printed ahead of time. If you are planning on traveling down on your own, please see Mr. Fogderud for a ticket to the event. (Tickets will be provided for everyone on the "Fan Bus")
BHS Wind Symphony Fan Bus.
$22 per person.
Bus leaves at 11am, returns at 6:30pm.
Call 218-454-6300.
Please reserve your spot by Monday February 1st.
No hassle of parking or driving in the city! We would love to have a "hometown crowd" at this very special concert. Tickets to the event are free to supporters of the BHS Wind Symphony but need to be printed ahead of time. If you are planning on traveling down on your own, please see Mr. Fogderud for a ticket to the event. (Tickets will be provided for everyone on the "Fan Bus")
8th Grade Student Soloist in State Honor Choir
Forestview 8th grader, Jacob Hanson, was chosen to be a soloist with the 2015 American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota's 7th and 8th Grade State Honor Choir. Across the state, over 800 students auditioned to be a part of the choirs. Eight Forestview students were chosen to sing, including Jacob, who was selected as the only soloist at the concert. The students rehearsed and performed on Saturday, November 21st in Mahtomedi, MN.
Listen below to enjoy a recording of Jacob's solo, and the State 7th and 8th Grade Boys Honor Choir.
Listen below to enjoy a recording of Jacob's solo, and the State 7th and 8th Grade Boys Honor Choir.
Madrigal Dinner Tickets On Sale!
Call 454-6200 to reserve your seats
BHS Music Students Perform for Local Veterans
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The combined BHS 9-12 Grade Choirs, Chamber Orchestra and Wind Symphony performed Carmen Dragon's arrangement of "America, the Beautiful" on Wednesday's Veterans Day Ceremony held in the BHS Gymnasium. 200+ student musicians came together to give honor and thanks to the veterans of the Brainerd Lakes Area. The music department is grateful to be asked to participate in such a meaningful ceremony and is humbled by the amazing sacrifice of area Veterans. Thanks to Brainerd music students, student body, staff and community for making this Veteran's Day one of respect and appreciation!
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BHS Music Students Volunteer for "We Scare Hunger"
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A big thank you to the BHS Music Students along with Student Council, Key Club, Interact, Spanish Club and 9-12 Class Cabinets who volunteered their time on Halloween to canvass local neighborhoods for donations to the Salvation Army Food Shelf. Student Council President and Wind Symphony member Rachel Cleveland had this to say about the event: "Canvassed Brainerd and Baxterneighborhoods on Halloween to Scare
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Hunger. We toughed it out through the rain and had a lot of fun! After bringing 5 overflowing cars to the Salvation Army Food Shelf this morning, we had donated 1,740 lbs. of non perishable food items that will provide resources for families as we are approaching this Thanksgiving season! We have a lot to be thankful for here at Brainerd High School and all students that participated will surely echo how much of a rewarding experience it was."
FMS Students Selected for State Honor Choir
Kalina Vandeputte, Lily Loshcko, Anna Just, John Toven, Danny Roehrich, Peyton McConkey, Jacob Hanson , and Andrew Kirzeder.
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Eight Forestview students have been selected to represent Brainerd in the American Choral Director's Association "Honor Choir" in Mahtomedi on Saturday, November 21st. Seventh grade students included Kalina Vandeputte, Lily Loshcko, Anna Just, John Toven, and Danny Roehrich. Eighth grade students representing Forestview include Andrew Kirzeder, Jacob Hanson, and Peyton McConkey. Over 800 students auditioned for the two choirs, and 295 students were selected to perform. Students completed an audition, and were chosen by a panel of vocal instructors across the state.
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A Cappella Choir to be Featured on MN Public Radio
The A Cappella Choir will be featured on Classical Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) on Tuesday, September 15, 2015. Tune in to 90.7 FM at 7:15 AM and again at 6:30 PM to hear selections chosen from their performance at MMEA last year. They are featured in MPR's School Spotlight, celebrating music programs across the state every first Tuesday of the month.
Click here for the link to MPR
Click here for the link to MPR
Forestview Summer Choir Camp
Registration is open for Summer Choir Camp at Forestview. Camp is open for students entering 6th Grade in Fall 2015. Camp meets June 10th, 11th, and 12th from 9:00-11:30 AM. We will sing, learn about our voices, read music, and give a mini-concert on Friday. We hope to see you there! Click here for more information: Summer Choir Camp
Forestview Students in State Honor Choir
On Saturday, May 1st, six Forestview 6th Grade Choir students represented Brainerd in the ACDA-MN State 4-5-6 Honor Choir. 860 students auditioned to be a part of the choirs, and 265 students were selected. Students learned six songs for the event, and spent months preparing at home and with Miss Oehler. Forestview was represented by John Toven, Lily Loschko, Kylie Hurlbert, Meghan Barna, Anna Just, and Kalina Vandeputte. Way to go, 6th Graders!
Faculty and Friends Recital May 10th
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Members of the Brainerd Public Schools' music faculty will be presenting a recital at 2pm on Sunday, May 10th at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Nisswa. The recital will feature solos, duets, and other small ensembles made up of the music faculty throughout the district. A free-will offering will be taken with all proceeds going to Kinship Partners, a local non-profit mentor program that pairs youth in the Brainerd Lakes area with positive role models. For more information regarding Kinship Partners visit www.kinshippartners.org.
What: Faculty Recital Where: Lutheran Church of the Cross 5064 County Rd 13 Nisswa, MN When: 2pm Sunday, May 10th Why: Fundraiser for Kinship Partners |
Brainerd Band Students Participate in MDBA Honor Band
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Three Brainerd High School Band students and one Forestview Band student represented the Brainerd Band well this weekend and the 2015 Minnesota Band Directors Association Honor Band held in Alexandria, MN. Mallory Maine, Caitlyn Swartwood, Maria Bell, and Erica Christianson each submitted recorded auditions in December and were selected from all other students in Minnesota to participate. The bands first rehearsal took place on Saturday morning April 25th and continued throughout the day with sectionals and more rehearsals until both bands (7-8, 9-10) presented their concert on Sunday afternoon. Great Job!
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6th Grade Registration 2015-2016
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6th grade music registration is now open for students who will be entering 6th Grade in September, 2015. Students may register for band, orchestra, choir, or two ensembles. Please visit the band, orchestra, and choir pages for more information about 6th grade music. Registration packets are available from your son / daughter's 5th grade teachers. See you in 6th grade!
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Students Perform in 6th Annual BHS Music Showcase
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BHS music students performed in the 6th Annual BHS Music Showcase on Tuesday, March 31st. Every year the top performing ensembles from BHS (A Cappella Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Wind Symphony) achieve their most advanced music making at the Central Lakes Conference Music Festival. This festival is usually hosted somewhere far away from Brainerd and is not seen by our community. The BHS Music Showcase was born out of a desire to share this music with the community that supports and cares for these students. Below is a sample from the performances!
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Band Completes Southwest Tour to LA via, Denver, Grand Canyon
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The BHS Wind Symphony, and Symphonic band (the top two auditioned bands at BHS) took their musical talents on tour over spring break through the Southwest United States. Their tour began with a long bus ride overnight Friday that brought them to Denver, CO the following morning for a master class with Dr. Joe Martin at the University of Denver. Following another long day of travel the bands found them selves at the south rim of the Grand Canyon, a first for many. Once in Los Angeles, CA the band received a guided tour of Paramount Studios,
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took part in 2 one hour masterclasses with World renowned composer and conductor Frank Ticheli, participated in a filmscore clinic at Walt Disney Land where the students performed and recorded the music to several well known movies, and attended a concert at the L.A. Philharmonic. Students were in great spirits throughout the trip and seized the most out of each of these life-changing experiences. The Students also enjoyed downtime at Disney Land, California Adventures, Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame, Catalina Island, and a meal at the Hard Rock Cafe.
9th Grade Student Participates State Honor Choir
BHS 9th grader, Elizabeth Ortmeier, was chosen to be a member of the 2015 American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota's 9-10 Grade State Mixed Honor Choir. The 125 members of this prestigious choir were chosen from over 600 auditions that were submitted from all over the state of Minnesota. Elizabeth joined the other members of this year's State 9-10 Grade Mixed Honor Choir on February 12, at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, for a day of rehearsals; culminating in a concert for the public that same night. This turned out to be an even more special day for Elizabeth, as she was chosen to be a featured soloist on one of the songs that the State 9-10 Grade Mixed Honor Choir performed. Click on the link below to enjoy a recording of the song that Elizabeth was featured on. She is the first soloist you will hear on the recording. Congratulations Elizabeth! We are very proud of you!
BHS Students Perform in MMEA All-State
2015 MMEA All-State Symphonic Band Musicians. From left: Cassidy Pelkey (flute), Matthew Majerle (alto sax), Catie Kleindl (clarinet)
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Three BHS band students were selected to perform in the 2015 MMEA All-State Symphonic Band under the direction of Scott Hagen of the University of Utah. The students performed at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis and their selections included, Resplendent Glory by Rossano Galante, Testament by David Maslanka, and the Black Horse Troop, by John Philip Sousa. Each player went through a rigorous recorded audition process and participated in a week long summer camp in August.
Congratulations Cassidy, Matt and Catie!!!! |
Brainerd High School Alumni Perform at MMEA
2015 Inter-collegiate Honor Band Participants. From left, Jessica Koehler, Bradyn Watson, Mr. Fogderud, Cameron Trott, Cassidy Trott.
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Four Brainerd Band Alumni were selected to perform at the prestigious Minnesota Music Educators Association Mid-winter Clinic as part of the 2015 Inter-collegiate Honor Band. Colleges from around the state nominate students to take part in this ensemble which performed at 9:00 am in the Minneapolis Convention Center Ballroom. Participants were Jessica Koehler (St. Cloud State), Bradyn Watson (University of Northwestern St. Paul), Cameron Trott and Cassidy Trott (Bemidji State University).
Also - NIck Schwen performed at the same conference with the Bethel University Wind Symphony. |
Music Department Selected as Semi-Finalist for GRAMMY
The music department at Brainerd High School was recently notified that it was selected as a Semi-Finalist GRAMMY Signature School. The department prepared an extensive application in September, and will now submit additional information, including recordings of each of the top performance ensembles at the high school for consideration for the award. If selected as a finalist the department would receive a grant ranging from $1,000 - $10,000 to supplement the programs, and receive recognition as a GRAMMY Signature School.
Please follow this link to view the official Press Release
Schools selected as finalists will be notified in March!
Please follow this link to view the official Press Release
Schools selected as finalists will be notified in March!
Band Members Selected to MDBA Honor Band
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Three Brainerd High School Freshman band students have been selected to represent the department at the Minnesota Band Directors Association 9-10 Honor Band. Maria Bell, Mallory Maine, and Caitlyn Swartwood, playing Baritone Saxophone, Flute, and Percussion respectively, will participate in the honor band April 25th and 26th in Alexandria, MN. Additional Ericka Christiansen, an 8th grade band student from Forestview Middle School was selected for the 7-8 Honor Band on clarinet. Each student prepared an audition consisting of scales and etudes that were recorded and submitted online to judges from across the state. The students will travel down to Alexandria and work with some of the finest music educators in the state as section coaches, and will be conducted by Dr. Doug Orzolek associate director of bands at the University of St. Tomas. Following an intense day and a half of rehearsals the band will present a concert on Sunday, April 26th at 2pm in the auditorium of Alexandria Area High School. Congratulations!
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FMS Students Perform in State Honor Choir
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Seven Forestview students represented Brainerd in the American Choral Director's Association "Honor Choir" in Mahtomedi on Saturday, November 22nd. Seventh grade students included Jacob Drietz, Jacob Hanson, Eden Worden, Morgan Erickson, and Peyton McConkey. Eighth grade students representing Forestview included Abby Oldham and Rebecca Eslinger. Over 800 students auditioned for the two choirs, and 280 students were accepted into the groups.
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Combined Music Ensembles Perform For Our Veterans
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The combined BHS 9-12 Grade Choirs, Chamber Orchestra and Wind Symphony performed Peter Wilhousky's arrangement of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" on Tuesday's Veteran's Day Ceremony held in the BHS Gymnasium. 200+ student musicians came together to give honor and thanks to the Veterans of the Brainerd Lakes Area. The music department is grateful to be asked to participate in such a meaningful ceremony and is humbled by the amazing sacrifice of area Veterans. Thanks to Brainerd music students, student body, staff and community for making this Veteran's Day one of respect and appreciation!
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BHS Jazz Performs with Jazz Saxophone Virtuoso
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The BHS Jazz Ensembles performed with internationally recognized saxophone virtuoso Russell Peterson on their fall concert on Nov. 6th. Mr. Peterson is currently the saxophone, bassoon and jazz instructor at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. Mr. Peterson gave a total of 7 educational clinics to BHS band students throughout his two day residency as well as performing with BHS Jazz Ensemble I and II. The concert also featured the Cuyuna Saxophone Quartet and the BHS Windfall Choir, the select vocal ensemble at BHS whose curriculum includes vocal jazz.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE CONCERT |
150 Band Choir and Orchestra Students attend MN Orch Concert
On November 1st nearly 150 band, choir, and orchestra students grades 9-12 had the exciting opportunity to attend a Minnesota Orchestra concert at Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis. The Orchestra performed music by Gustov Holst, Claude Debussy, Richard Struass, John Williams. Music ranged from classical, to film scores. The students behaved wonderfully and had a great time.
BHS Jazz Students Honored at All-Conference Jazz Festival
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On Monday, Oct. 27th, BHS Jazz Musicians, Connor Gunsbury, Devin Makey, Elijah Gabrio and Rachel Cleveland, were selected for membership in the CLC All-Conference Jazz Ensembles.
In Alexandria Area High School's new Performing Arts Center, these ensembles rehearsed and performed with nationally renowned trumpet educator and performer, Dr. Steve Wright. The jazz ensembles consisted of the top high school jazz musicians from around the Central Lakes Conference. Way to go Connor, Devin, Elijah and Rachel!!! |
Real Men Sing
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The Forestview "7th and 8th Grade Guys Choirs" and Brainerd High School's "Bards" represented Brainerd at "Real Men Sing," a festival in Staples, MN on Saturday, October 4th, with the Great Northern Union Chorus. "Real Men Sing" aims to create an atmosphere where young male singers have fun singing, experience success as a choral ensemble, interact with positive male role models, and experience the richness that singing in a choir can bring to one's life. Be sure to check out photos from the day by visiting our "Photos" page.
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Heartland Symphony Orchestra: Russian Masters
As a part of Heartland Symphony Orchestra upcoming concert series, "Russian Masters," concert soloist Dr. Joseph Welch visited Forestview Middle School to visit with 5th graders about the series. Dr. Welch discussed the story of Rachmaninoff's life and his composition of his "Piano Concerto, No. 2," performed excerpts for the fifth grade classes, and enjoyed interacting with students in an engaging question-and-answer session.
Students and families are invited and encouraged to attend the concert at Tornstrom Auditorium on Sunday, October 12th at 2:30 PM. Tickets are FREE for students in grades K-12!
Students and families are invited and encouraged to attend the concert at Tornstrom Auditorium on Sunday, October 12th at 2:30 PM. Tickets are FREE for students in grades K-12!
Lakes Area Music Festival: Activities for Youth!
Throughout the summer, the Lakes Area Music Festival offers a number of extraordinary events in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Concerts and events include orchestral concerts, string quartets, the opera "Hansel and Gretel," and workshops and open rehearsals. Students are invited to attend several educational camps and workshops during the summer months. Be sure to check out more information at http://www.lakesareamusic.org. See you this summer!
When I listen to music it's like I'm in a whole different world and I escape the world full of worries.
~ Ashley Maust 2017
Brainerd Bands Gearing up for Fall
The whole music department is gearing up for a great fall. All high school band students should have received a letter from their director about needed materials for the first day of classes. Yes you will need your instrument! In case you did not receive the letters they are attached below. The forms can also be found on each band's web page.
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BHS Wind Symphony Skypes with Composer
The BHS Wind Symphony has commissioned a new work for wind band by Minnesota composer Katherine Bergman. The piece, entitled "Turbinia," will be premiered at the 7:30pm band concert on May 16th. On Thursday, May 1st, Katherine Bergman took time to skype with the members of the BHS Wind Symphony. She answered many questions about her musical training, inspiration and her process of composing the new work. The band also performed the work for the composer and received notes and insight in how to perform the piece more accurately...straight from the composer herself!
5th Grade Choir Camp
Registration is now open for the 5th Grade Summer Choir Camp held at Forestview on June 11, 12, and 13 from 9:00-11:30 AM. Any student currently in 5th grade, or entering 6th grade at Forestview next year is welcome to attend. Students will learn about singing, playing instruments, moving, and will give a short concert on Friday at 11:10 AM. The camp is led by Mr. Stubbs, Miss Oehler, Mr. Aulie, and Mrs. Pelowski, and assisted by members of the BHS A Cappella Choir. Registration for the camp is FREE, but early registration is recommended as the camp is limited to 80 students.
Forestview Choir Skypes with Composer
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The 8th Grade Women's Chorus at Forestview is premiering a commissioned piece by Andrew Miller of North Dakota (a Brainerd High School graduate) at their spring concert on Tuesday, May 13th. The piece, "As the sun opens the flower," to be published by Santa Barbara Publishing Company, was written for the Forestview 8th Grade Women's Chorus. During the spring semester, the girls have been able to Skype with Mr. Miller several times, and they're looking forward to a classroom visit from Mr. Miller and his attendance at their spring concert for the commission.
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My favorite part [about band] is probably making great music with great people.
~ Travis Jenson 2017
BHS Music Department Community Projects
The 2014 BHS Music Service Project will consist of 80 + Brainerd music students volunteering for the Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity over the course of 4 Saturdays in April and May. The dates are April 5,12, 26 and May 3 from 9am until 1pm. A very special thanks to Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity for organizing the event, and our sponsors the Teehive of Brainerd for providing t-shirts and Brainerd Papa John's for providing pizza to the volunteers.
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BHS Bands To Host Renowned Brass Quintet
The Brainerd High School Bands will be performing a joint concert with the Copper Street Brass Quintet on MONDAY MARCH 3rd at 6:00PM and 7:30 PM. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Five Wings Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTO GALLERY OF REHEARSALS AND CONCERT!! |
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Forestview Band Students Featured on TV
A total of five Forestview Band students were selected to perform with the MBDA 7-8 Grade Honor Band. Over 300 students from around the state auditioned and only 80 were accepted. Lakeland Public Television interviewed Forrestview Band students and staff. Click the link below for the video!
CLICK HERE FOR THE LPTV VIDEO!!
CLICK HERE FOR THE LPTV VIDEO!!
BHS All-State Student Performs in Orchestra Hall
BHS Junior, Anna Gardner
Brainerd HIgh School Junior Anna Gardner performed in Minneapolis's Orchestra Hall on Saturday February 15th as part of the MMEA All-State Orchestra. The orchestra performed "I. Mars" and "IV. Jupiter" from Gustav Holst's "The Planets" as well as "Danzon No. 2" by Arturo Marquez. Anna can be heard on the state-wide MPR Classical broadcasts of the performance during the week of February 17th. Anna was one of four high school trumpeters from around the state of Minnesota selected to perform. She went through a rigorous live audition process and participated in a week-long summer camp in August.
CONGRATULATIONS ANNA!
CONGRATULATIONS ANNA!
Mr. Fogderud Featured on Minnesota Public Radio
Our very own Mr. Fogderud was recognized by Minnesota Public Radio in their Music Teacher Feature. Follow the link below for the full write up as well as a recording of the interview!
Music Teacher Feature: Christopher Fogderud
Music Teacher Feature: Christopher Fogderud
FMS Students Perform at ACDA Honor Choir
Congratulations to nine superior Forestview singers who represented the school at the ACDA Honor Choir: Peyton McConkey (6), Jacob Hanson (6), Ben Toriseva (7), Abby Oldham (7), Zach Strong (8), Lizzy Ortmeier (8), Libby Kurtzman (8), Tarin Skinner (8), and Kalie Jeremiason (8).
These students were selected from hundreds of auditions submitted across the state to participate in the ACDA-MN State Honor Choir program this past Friday and Saturday. The students worked all day with a nationally recognized conductor to produce a complete concert program that evening. They achieved beautiful singing through an incredible experience. Now, these leaders are able to share and lead their choirs in excelling to another level of musicality and performance.
These students were selected from hundreds of auditions submitted across the state to participate in the ACDA-MN State Honor Choir program this past Friday and Saturday. The students worked all day with a nationally recognized conductor to produce a complete concert program that evening. They achieved beautiful singing through an incredible experience. Now, these leaders are able to share and lead their choirs in excelling to another level of musicality and performance.
Forestview Middle School Once Again Well Represented in ACDA State Honor Choirs!
Once again this year, Forestview Middle School will be well represented in the American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota State Honor Choirs. 6th graders, Jacob Hanson and Peyton McConkey , will represent Forestview in the 4-5-6 Grade State Elementary Honor Choir. 7th grader, Abby Oldham and 8th graders, Kalie Jeremiason, Libby Kurtzman, Elizabeth Ortmeier, and Tarin Skinner will represent Forestview Middle School in the 7th and 8th Grade Girls' Honor choir, while 7th grader Ben Toriseva and 8th grader Zach Strong represent our school in the 7th and 8th Grade Boys' Honor Choir. Over 800 students from around the state auditioned for these three honor choirs and were scored on the following musical elements of intonation, pitch accuracy, tone quality, attention to diction, and musical expression. 150 students were chosen to be part of this year’s State 4-5-6 Children’s Honor Choir. 150 students were chosen to be part of this year’s State 7-8 Girls’ Honor Choir. 125 students were chosen to be part of this year’s State 7-8 Boys’ Honor Choir. Forestview Middle School choir directors, Marcus Aulie and Lucy Oehler are very proud of all the students who sent in an audition this year for one of these honor choirs. They made special mention that our school sent in the maximum number of auditions possible for the 7-8 Grade Girls' Honor Choir, and with five girls from our school making the choir, we also have the maximum number of girls in that choir as allowed by the state. Mr. Aulie and Miss Oehler are confident that if the state allowed more than five girls from a school into that choir, we would have had even more students involved! The State Honor Choir Festival will take place in Mahtomedi, MN on Friday, November 22 for the Elementary Honor Choir students, and on Saturday, November 23 for the 7-8 Grade Honor Choir students. All of the Honor Choir concerts will take place at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi at 5:30 p.m. on their respected dates. Visit www.acda-mn.org for more information about this year's Honor Choir Festival.
Back Row: Lizzie Ortmeier, Libby Kurtzman, Tarin Skinner, Zach Strong, Abby Oldham
Front Row: Jacob Hanson, Peyton McConkey, Ben Toriseva
Not pictured: Kalie Jeremiason
Back Row: Lizzie Ortmeier, Libby Kurtzman, Tarin Skinner, Zach Strong, Abby Oldham
Front Row: Jacob Hanson, Peyton McConkey, Ben Toriseva
Not pictured: Kalie Jeremiason
Brainerd Music Department's best performs for Veterans
The Brainerd Music Department offered up their best for area Veterans on Monday at the Brainerd High School Veteran's Day Program. Chamber Orchestra directed by James Larson; A Capella Choir, directed by Brian Stubbs; and Wind Symphony, directed by Chris Fogderud; all performed during the morning ceremony. The music department is grateful to be asked to participate in such a meaningful ceremony and is humbled by the amazing sacrifice of area Veterans. Thanks to Brainerd music students, student body, staff and community for making this Veteran's Day one of respect and appreciation!
Warrior Pep Band Keeps Busy Supporting State-bound Football
The Brainerd High School Warrior Pep Band traveled along with the football team to the State Tournament game against Henry Sibley High School on Friday Nov. 8th. The students were in good spirits as they roughed cold and wet weather. The weather should be much better this Saturday (November 16th) as the band travels again with the team down to Minneapolis to Play in the Metrodome (Mall of America Field). The bus will load at 2pm with a departure at 2:30, game begins at 7pm. Students who are riding the bus will receive $10 for dinner and should return around 12am.
Five Brainerd Jazz Students Selected to Perform
Anna Gardner, Mitch Gerard, Connor Gunsbury, David Phillips and Nick Schwen were selected by director nomination to perform in Sauk Rapids on Monday Oct. 28 as part of the Central Lakes Conference All-Conference Jazz Festival. Anna Gardner performed with Jazz Ensemble II, while Mitch, Connor, David and Nick performed with Jazz Ensemble I. Dr. Kyle Mack from North Dakota State University was the quest clinician with CLC All-Conference Jazz Ensemble I. CLICK HERE for a slide show of the fantastic event. Congratulations Anna, Mitch, Connor, David and Nick!
Introducing Brainerd Music Concert Passes
In an effort to alleviate the financial burden of attending multiple concerts throughout the year the music department is offering several year-long music passes for concerts. Concert passes can be purchased at all music concerts. Prices are listed below. NOTE: high school music students are given a concert pass to attend all concerts free of charge.
ADULT ALL-MUSIC PASS - $40
FAMILY ALL-MUSIC PASS - $96
STUDENT ALL-MUSIC PASS - $25
Normal prices for entry to concerts are: Adult = $6, Youth $4.
Showcase Concert, featuring all top music ensembles at BHS is April 8th.
ADULT ALL-MUSIC PASS - $40
FAMILY ALL-MUSIC PASS - $96
STUDENT ALL-MUSIC PASS - $25
Normal prices for entry to concerts are: Adult = $6, Youth $4.
Showcase Concert, featuring all top music ensembles at BHS is April 8th.
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Band Concerts:
Nov 7 - 6pm & 7:30pm Dec 19 - 6pm & 7:30pm Mar 3 - 6pm & 7:30pm May 15 - 6pm & 7:30pm |
Choir Concerts:
Oct 24 - 7pm Dec 16 - 7pm Feb 24 - 7pm May 22 - 7pm |
Orchestra Concerts:
Nov 19 - 7pm Feb 18 - 7pm May 20 - 7pm |
Jazz Band Concerts:
Nov 4 - 7pm Feb 10 - 7pm May 8 - 7pm |
Principal Rusk Jams With Pep Band
The pep band has been busy this season having performed at five volley ball and football games already and with more to come, including basketball and hockey! The pep band is made up of students in all three 10th-12th grade bands: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Symphony. At the last regular season football game the band was joined by a special guest: Principal Andrea Rusk! Principal Rusk demonstrated her drumming prowess as the band cheered on the Warriors to a 47-0 shutout!
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