This evening, the Band and Chorus gave stirring performances during a joint session of Boys’ and Girls’ State in Kimball Hall. Led by Waverly High School band director Jim Kucera, the combined Boys’ and Girls’ State Band began the evenings’ musical festivities. They played a variety of tunes, including “Ballad of the Green Berets;” “Amazed,” by the country band Lonestar; and the classic, “There is No Place Like Nebraska.” Following the instrumentalists came the combined Chorus, led by UNL Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Peter Eklund. They performed a beautiful repertoire of pieces, ranging from movingly emotional to bouncy and fun. Both the Band and Chorus received a standing ovation after nearly every song was completed. While the incredible musical talent of these young men and women is not surprising given their other credentials, what is truly remarkable is that this amazing performance was rehearsed in only two days! The Boys’ State program sends out a very special ‘Thank You!’ to Dr. Eklund and Mr. Kucera for volunteering their time to lead these incredible young people this week. Overall, the band and chorus performances were a showcase of remarkable talent and a ton of fun for everyone present.
