Winter Band Concert

Confucius, an ancient Chinese philosopher once said, “Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.”

Whether he was referring to the emotion of the performers or the members of the audience, music of all genres has a way of conveying passion that extends beyond words. With numerous research studies to support their cause, members of LRHS band find it easy to agree: there are many benefits to be gained from submerging yourself in music.

In order to share their love of music and show family, friends and community members the material they’ve learned this year, LRHS band will be having their winter concert on December 11. Members of the public are invited to attend, so that as many people as possible can enjoy their work and the positive mental affects that come with it.

Performances will be on Thursday, December 11, in the Ritzville Grade School gymnasium. The night will begin at 6 p.m. with Ritzville Grade School’s preschool through fourth grade students singing holiday themed tunes under the direction of Susan Schafer.

At 7 p.m., Ritzville’s fifth grade band and high school ensemble will take over under the direction of Jennifer York.

In addition to enjoying the music and reflecting on the progress of the musicians, there are health benefits that can be gleaned from listening to music. According to an article on usatoday.com, “Research suggests that music not only helps us cope with pain—it can also benefit our physical and mental health in numerous other ways.”

Among many, some notable benefits include reduced stress, improved cognitive performance, relieved symptoms of depression, elevated mood, and expedited recovery after surgery.

The benefits for the students are also positive; research proves that playing an instrument can be helpful in many different aspects. The Telegraph online magazine explains, “New research suggests that regularly playing an instrument changes the shape and power of the brain and may be used in therapy to improve cognitive skills.”

In the journal of Psychology of Music, yet more evidence is presented: “Children exposed to a multi-year program of music tuition involving training in increasingly complex rhythmic, tonal and practical skills display superior cognitive performance in reading skills compared with their non-musically trained peers.”

Health benefits aside, students are excited for their upcoming performance.

Sara Aldrich, a senior member of LRHS band, is looking forward to the concert because she wants “to show off all of the hard work we’ve done. gives us a chance to play difficult pieces that are recognizable to the public, so they’re fun.”

Katie Manke, the other senior in high school band, said, “I like “Exaltation” [one of the pieces the band will be playing] because it challenges me and I feel accomplished when we run it successfully.”

Emily Kinney, a sophomore, said, “I’m excited for the public to hear how we’ve improved since last year. ‘Exaltation’ is my favorite because the flutes have the best part!”

Whether you are encouraged by the health benefits or want to support the LRHS band program, all community members are invited to attend the winter concert on December 11.