The sounds of UD resonated through downtown Dayton Friday
Students and faculty from the Department of Music preform at the Levitt Pavilion for first time since COVID. Photo of Pride of Dayton Marching Band courtesy of Kerry Kadel.
Tori Miller | Staff Writer
On the evening of Sept. 3, the University of Dayton Music Department was represented by multiple group performances at the Levitt Pavilion located in downtown Dayton. With the outdoor amphitheater atmosphere, UD’s ensembles had the opportunity to perform live for the first time in months while abiding by COVID accommodations.
The concert began at 7 p.m. to the song of trumpets. UD’s select trumpet choir got the ball rolling with a selected piece, titled “Into the Blue,” that involved various changing notes, rhythms and had a fast-paced tempo.
Following the trumpet choir’s performance was the Pride of Dayton Marching Band. In its entirety, UD’s marching band has close to 170 musicians, in which all were present at the Levitt Pavilion performance. This was the first time the Pride of Dayton had performed for a live audience in over a year and a half.
With their director Kenneth Will, the band played fan favorites as well as previewed their upcoming songs for their halftime show. The fight song “Victory” got the fans warmed up. Then “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons, “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay, “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd and “Neck” were played. The performance also showcased songs appearing in the band’s football pregame, such as “Go Dayton Flyers” and “In the Stone” by Earth, Wind, & Fire. With flashy horn moves, energetic dances and songs, the Pride of Dayton seemed ready to take on the much anticipated season.
Next in the line of performances was various faculty ensembles. These groups proved that UD’s Music Department is full of well-trained and talented musicians. This included groups such as the Faculty Brass and the Faculty Jazztet.
Closing UD’s music showcase was the Dayton Jazz Ensemble (DJE). Directed by Dr. Willie Morris, this group had a great blend of smooth song choices and catchy tunes. The songs played were “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder, “Main Street News” by Rob Parton’s Jazztech Big Band, “Mack the Knife” by Bobby Darin, “Little Liza Jane” by Nina Simone and “What is Hip?” by Tower of Power.
The night at the Levitt Pavilion allowed UD’s eager musicians to perform for a live audience, which some have not experienced in a long time. This concert allowed UD’s music program to show what they have been working so hard on and to display passion.
To keep up with or join one of these music ensembles be sure to check out their social media handles and search the course catalog for registration information.
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