Four Selby Area High School students participated in the 73rd Annual South Dakota All-State Chorus and Orchestra, held at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls. Representing Selby Area were Gabby Sykes, Brandi Beitelspacher, Briley Helm, and Keaton Fiedler. The event began with rehearsals on Friday and Saturday, culminating in the Grand Concert on Saturday at 7:00 p.m.
The concert opened with the orchestra under the direction of Dr. Joel Neves, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Orchestral Activities at Michigan Technological University. The chorus followed under the direction of Dr. Jeffery Redding, 2019 GRAMMY Music Educator Award recipient and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Central Florida.
The combined chorus and orchestra began the evening with the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by Peter Wilhousky’s Battle Hymn of the Republic under Dr. Neves’s direction. The choir then performed several selections under Dr. Redding’s leadership, including It Takes a Village by Joan Szymko, Plaudite, Psallite by Kestutis Daugirdas, Measure Me Sky! by Elaine Hagenberg, Fever Dreams by Erich Eastman, and Let Me Listen by Dan Forrest. The concert concluded with a powerful combined performance of Until I Reach My Home by Brandon A. Boyd, conducted by Dr. Redding.
Dr. Redding’s passion for both music and mentorship inspired the students throughout the weekend. His engaging personality, life stories, and commitment to excellence motivated the ensemble to perform at their very best. The experience was both musically and personally rewarding for all who participated.
The Grand Concert was broadcast live on South Dakota Public Broadcasting (SDPB) and will be rebroadcast on Thanksgiving Day. Please check local listings for times.