Sara Stadem | Editor
Under the direction of Mr. Danny Eye, on April 27, the West Central High School Jazz and Concert Bands took stage for their last performances this school year that included announcements, awards and surprises.
The Jazz Band performed “Straight North”, “I Want it That Way” and “Caribbean Dance”. The Concert Band performed “Anthem for Winds and Percussion”, “My Soul A Canvas”, “Slumbers, My Darling”, “Conquest and Midway March”.
Throughout the concert, there were special guests to add to the evening.
Back in January, Mr. Eye was announced to receive the 2020-21 National Federation of State High Schools Association (NFHS) Outstanding Music Educator of the State of South Dakota. During the concert, Assistant Executive Director Brooks Bowman, from the South Dakota High School Activities Association, presented this award to Mr. Eye.
It was always announced at the concert that West Central was honored with the 2021 Best Communities for Music Education Award. Mr. Eye said, “It’s something we are very proud of and wanted to share it with the community. Mrs. Jensen made the announcement and introduced the staff.”
This concert held a first for Mr. Eye as he had indicated prior to the concert that there would be a surprise waiting for the audience. “I’ve never turned over my band to another director before! It was great to bring Mr. Berens up to conduct the final piece,” Mr. Eye said.
According to Mr. Eye, there was a great turnout in person and online for the concert.
“I know the kids were excited to be a part of the special concert. They knew how much it meant to me and my family, along with Mr. Berens and his family,” Mr. Eye said. He concluded, “Mr. Berens received the Distinguished Administrator Award presented by the South Dakota Music Educators Association!”