The music boomed and the audience applauded,at the combination of the Band Concert and Wind Ensemble, which were both held on the same night.

“It was a nice performance and all the hard work paid off,” said Christy Lowe, one of the band members.

“Performing is always a good experience, especially when your friends and family come here,” said Alicia Booher, who also performed that night.

The first part of the program presented four pieces including “Fortress” by Frank Ticheli, “Psalm 42”, “English Folk Song” by Samuel Hazo, “Rhythm Stand” by Jennifer Higdon and “Pageant” by Vincent Persichetti.

“Fortress” started out with a marching beat, gradually changing into a tender low-toned melody. “Psalm 42” was the complete opposite: a solemn and somber piece that was initially sung at a funeral. “Rhythm Stand” and “Pageant” went on in a colorful combination of different sound patterns.

“This was my first time seeing a UTM musical performance,” said Patrick Miller, a Spanish and International Studies double major. “Many more will follow.”

The second part of the program, the Wind Ensemble perfromance, included “Chester” by William Schuman, “Epinicion” by John Paulson, “The Sussex Mummers’ Christmas Carol” by Percy Grainger, “Third Suite” by Robert Jager and “Overture to “Candide”’ by Leonard Bernstein.

“Chester” is based on one of the songs of the American Revolution, while “Epinicion” held the audience’s attention with its abstract, non-traditional melody. “The Sussex Mummer’s Christmas Carol” was a solemn melody interrupted by the chorus. “Third Suite” consisted of three parts: the loud and invigorating “March,” the smooth “Waltz” with an abrupt ending, and the loud and fast “Rondo”. “Overture to “Candide”’ concluded the ensemble with its mix of orchestra and band repertoires.

The overall performance turned out to be exceptionally good, as Brenda Quinn, audience member noted. “I think the conductor has done a superb job getting these students to perform in perfect harmony. Both he and the students are to be commended.”