The 2008-09 school year is just beginning for Fayette County students but one group of students at Rising Starr Middle is already hard at work.

The Rising Starr Middle Symphonic Band found out last spring that they have been invited to perform at the 62nd annual Midwest International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, Ill. in December 2008. The Rising Starr Symphonic Band, under the direction of Steven Tyndall, is one of only three middle school bands chosen from the United States and 33 other countries. The band’s 2008 performance will mark the second time Rising Starr has participated in this prestigious gathering.

The Midwest Conference began in 1946 as an opportunity for bands to come together to preview newly published music. It has evolved into one of the most important and highly regarded gatherings of musical educators in the field. Both students and directors are offered opportunities to attend educational clinics and performances of a wide variety of musical ensembles.

The Rising Starr Symphonic Band will be joined by guest conductors Scott King, band director at Starr’s Mill High, David Walters, director emeritus at Jacksonville State University and Dr. Andrew Poor, associate director of bands at Starr’s Mill High. Dr. Poor will conduct an original arrangement entitled “Acceptance,” commissioned by the Rising Starr Band for the Midwest performance. Emily Tyndall of Columbus State University will be the featured guest soloist.

The symphonic band members have already begun rehearsals and fundraising for their upcoming trip. The public is invited to come show their support for these talented young musicians at their first major fundraiser on August 16. The band will host a yard sale in the parking lot of Peachtree City OB/GYN at 120 Clover Reach from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many band families have contributed to the yard sale and there will be treasures and bargains galore.

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