On Wednesday, Nov. 20, the Tracy High School Concert and Symphonic Band performed at the Grand Theatre in Downtown Tracy.

The bands joined forces to play three songs together. The songs played were Quad City Stomp, Not Alone and Halcyon Hearts. These songs have a lot of meaning to the bands after winning first place in their most recent competition performing these pieces.

Jacob Cortez, Tracy High School’s band director, helps the young musicians improve and learn to play their instruments to the best of their abilities.

“I am looking forward to seeing how the bands improved after our last few competitions,” Cortez stated before the performance.

Jason Mehlhaff, one of the night’s performers who plays the french horn, also expressed interest in seeing the band’s progress and was looking forward to being able to perform for his family.

“I like the way the music sounds when all the parts come together and harmonize,” Mehlhaff elaborated.

Owen Moore, another member of the band who plays in the percussion section along with the piano, explained what he was most excited for at the performance.

“I look forward to performing in a real theatre in front of an audience,” Moore said.

Moore also echoed Mehlhaff’s comments that his favorite part of the concert is being able to perform for his family and friends.

Micayla Soriano, who plays the oboe, also enjoys performing in the school concerts because she hopes to inspire people to get into music and learn how to play an instrument. Soriano finds enjoyment in seeing the audience’s reaction at the end of the show.

The night resulted in the bands having a very successful concert. With the large audience turnout, cheering and supporting all the programs and performances, it is easy to understand how these groups have ranked so highly in their competitions.