Ike band gets a little help from its friend

Members of the Eisenhower band ensembles are attributing part of their recent successes to a little help from their friend.

Dr. Kenneth Thompson, the Director of Bands from Bowling Green State University, recently worked with the ensembles and helped them received top ratings at a recent district festival.

"College Professors have such a high expectation, so it was nice for the students and myself to hear his interpretations of the music," said Christopher M. Traskal, Eisenhower Band teacher. "He had such a kind, yet direct, demeanor that it was really fun to watch."

An internationally known conductor and educator, Dr. Thompson worked on Tone Production, Phrasing, Dymnamics, and Musicality, according to Traskal.

Dr. Thompson helped Eisenhower earn straight First Divisons at District Festival and an invitation to MSBOA State Band Festival.

The band festival, featuring some of the best band and orchestras in the state, will be held April 25 at Eisenhower.

In addition, Eisenhower will host its Spring Music Concert on May 15 at 7:00 p.m.