Mira Costa Student-Led 'Band Celebration' Promises Fun, Surprises
Feb 26, 2021 11:25AM ● By Jeanne Fratello"This Year, We Had to Get Creative"
Traditionally, each school music program - choir, band and orchestra - has an “All District Festival” in February that celebrates the musical accomplishments of students from
4th through 12th grades in each musical arts discipline. But COVID-19 restrictions put the kibosh on those popular annual gatherings this year.
"We knew we wanted to foster that sense of community among the district somehow, so we decided that an online Zoom event with different videos and interactive activities would be the perfect way of doing so," said Nahlinder, who is also an award-winning filmmaker. "This is really important for us because being a member of the band really does feel like being a part of a family, and we really want to keep it that way."
According to Nahlinder, much of the video came from previous
footage shot at past concerts, football games, competitions, and
festivals. However, some new footage was shot over several days (with
proper safety precautions!) for various segments.
For example, the team shot a narrative
segment at Polliwog Park, got drone footage at Mira Costa during the
Drumline and Color Guard practices, and shot various other segments
throughout Manhattan Beach.
"It was a very satisfying experience to be able to work on this event, as I am passionate about film-making and music-making, and we could not have asked for better people to work with during the production," said Nahlinder, adding, "I am sure the guests at our event will have quite a blast."
Prizes, Dining Discounts Added
In addition to the video, there will be a variety of other attractions. Attendees will be able to play games and win prizes as part of the event itself. Families who register for the event will be able to enter into the group's After the Music Raffles. Raffle items include donations from corporate sponsors and community partners, Band and Guard families, and even a Band and Guard item or two (featuring the brand new program logos). Links to enter to win each raffle item will be emailed to attendees after the event.
Special dining discounts will be available from Mama D's and Rabanos from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday. See the event page for more information.
Furthermore, organizers have set up a Flipgrid just for the Behind the Music event for students to showcase their creativity. The Flipgrid will continue to be available after the event for attendees to enjoy. Content can be uploaded to www.flipgrid.com/behindthemusic.
Donations to the Mira Costa Band and Colorguard groups can be made here.