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Stepjen J. Patterson, director of concert and chief warrant officer, leads the group. Patterson served as commander and bandmaster of the 35th infantry bandmaster of the 35th infantry division band of the Kansas army national guard, retiring in 2016 after 38 years of service.
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David Carlson, conductor, takes the stage as the conductor. Carlson conducted two selections in the concert.
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Patterson performs solo on the cornet. He played Arbucklenian Polka by John Hartman.
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Musicians are performing on the flute under the direction of Patterson. Altogether, 12 pieces were performed at the concert.
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Musicians are performing on their respective instruments. Around 250 spectators were present in this concert.
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Jayme Malsom, vocal soloist, performs on America the Beautiful. This concert promoted American music and composers as this concert was bringing musicians together from all around the Topeka area.
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All the musicians stand in front of the audience and show gratitude for attending the concert. This concert took place at White Concert Hall.
On Sunday, Feb. 1, Sigma Alpha Iota international music presents Topeka area musicians in an all American band concert. SAI is a music fraternity that supports, encourages and celebrates the art of music. This concert was directed by Stepjen J. Patterson, chief warrant officer.
Krystal Markham, oboist and SAI member, describes how she feels about this event.
“It was so much fun. It was fun to be able to play my instrument again, because I don’t get a lot of opportunities to play,” Markham said. “It was for a great cause. I’m glad that we’re doing this to raise money with Sigma Alpha Iota for scholarships for students.”
Norma Pettijohn, treasurer of SAI, described that the main purpose of this event was to raise the fund for the scholarships for Washburn music students.
“Besides the money for the scholarships, it’s amazing how the players are on that stage,” Pettijohn said. “Love to get together once a year and play this wonderful music. A lot of them are band directors in Topeka, or they played instruments when they were in college and all of a sudden they get to bring out their instruments and play again under a wonderful director.”
Patterson said that he was glad that everyone came for the concert. He also explained the vision of all American band concerts.
“It’s an annual event to raise money for the music scholarships here at Washburn,” Patterson said. “This is an annual event, usually the first Sunday in February.”
Through this concert, Topeka Alumnae Chapter will be providing scholarship opportunities to members of Theta Chapter, the collegiate chapter at Washburn University. This concert also promotes American music and composers and brings musicians together all around the Topeka area.
Edited by Anushma Dahal and Arohi Rai
