The colors red, white and blue covered the Barrus Concert Hall last Friday night. The BYU-Idaho Symphony Band, conducted by Diane Soelberg, performed its annual Stars and Stripes and Sousa concert, featuring trombonist Larry Zalkind.

The audience fell silent and rose to its feet as the color guard appeared and performed the flag ceremony. The Symphony Band then performed its first number, “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Trombonist Larry Zalkind appeared as the featured soloist for two pieces: “Annie Laurie” and “Liebesleid.” Zalkind began his trombone career at age 8 in his elementary school music program. While working on his doctorate in music performance at the University of Michigan, Zalkind became the Utah Symphony Principal Trombonist in 1981.

Zalkind now works as the Acting Associate Principal with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. He has also released two solo albums under the Summit Records label entitled Larry Zalkind Plays Baroque Music on the Trombone and Encore!

Spurts of applause filled the auditorium throughout Zalkind’s performance in both pieces. When his time ended, the crowd not only clapped and cheered but also gave Zalkind a standing ovation as he exited the stage.

“I really liked Larry Zalkind,” said Enoch Jenson, a parent of band member Terance Jenson. “That’s my kind of music for sure.”

The night proceeded with many more numbers, including “The Sound of Music,” a medley of familiar songs from the musical.

The audience quietly sang along, bobbing their heads as the Symphony Band transitioned from “The Hills are Alive With the Sound of Music” to “My Favorite Things” to “Sixteen Going on Seventeen.” Smiles appeared on the audience members’ faces as each recognizable song filled the room.

“We tried to choose a variety of songs you’d enjoy, or so we hope,” said conductor Diane Soelberg prior to the last two performances. Soelberg then announced the second to last piece, “Parade of Services,” a medley of military branch theme songs.

Audience members who had served or are currently serving in the military were then invited to stand during their branch’s theme song.

Patriotism filled the room as men stood up with each transition and tears filled the eyes of some of the listeners.

“I was really excited and fulfilled by the way it was all presented,” said Specialist Baker, a member of the ROTC on campus. “It was a good feeling.”

The night ended with “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” Towards the end of the number, three piccolo players and the trumpet and trombone sections lined the front of the stage as a large American flag dropped from the ceiling.

“I was really honored to be a part of this performance,” said Katie Sorensen, a junior studying music education. “I feel like our military does so much for us; this is something we can do for them.”

Crystal Perry

Scroll Staff