The first row of the Black Belt Recorder Ensemble, during École Port Elgin Saugeen Central School’s Holiday Music Night, December 19.

Hub Staff

The third time was the charm as École Port Elgin Saugeen Central School (ÉPESC) presented their Holiday Music Night December 19, after snowy weather closed the school postponing the last week for two of its originally scheduled performance.

Conducted by ÉPESC music teacher Matthew Patterson, the stylings of the Black Belt Recorder Ensemble, Intermediate Concert Band, the Jazz Ensemble and the Senior Concert Band, played for an audience that filled the school’s gymnasium. While the Primary Choir, dressed in their seasonal best, conducted by Mme. Barnard, and accompanied by Mlle. Bell on piano, got the concert off to a great start singing selections such as Silent Night and Nuttin’ for Christmas.

The musical school is gearing up for a busy 2017, with new instruments including ukuleles on the call sheet. The Jazz Ensemble and Intermediate and Senior Concert bands will also be traveling across Ontario, performing at competitions such as: MusicFest in Collingwood, Walkerton Festival, and MusicFest Nationals in Niagara Falls.

Matthew Patterson announced that the school will perform its Spring Concert on May 4 as well as a Tribute to Disney, May 14. Patterson invited all parents and band members to dress up as their favourite Disney characters, and joked that the school would be transformed into a castle.

Members of the Primary Choir performing Silent Night at ÉPESC December 19.

The Brass section of the Intermediate Concert Band.

The majority of the evening’s performances were conducted by music teacher Matthew Patterson.

ÉPESC’s Jazz Ensemble.

Members of ÉPESC’s Senior Concert Band.