We are really excited to share that CEMS has been selected to host Texas-based composer JaRod Hall for the Beyond the Notes 2025 ComMission Possible Project's World Premiere performance. Middle Schools from across the country have been taking part in this consortium commission, however only one school (CEMS!) was selected for the artist residency and to perform the world premier of the piece.
Throughout the fall, the 8th grade band and the other middle school bands involved in the commission have been participating in different creative experiences/activities ultimately resulting in them developing a concept for the new composition. A panel of adjudicators selected the top fifteen ideas submitted by participating schools for Mr. Hall to consider. In fact, two CEMS students Anika Wark & Clara Kerkam, had their ideas selected for the final round. This fall and winter, the 8th grade band students have been receiving videos updates from Mr. Hall about the different steps of the compositional process.
For our CEMS students, the entire experience will culminate in a two-day residency with Mr. Hall (May 7th & 8th) and then the world premiere of the composition at our May 8th spring concert. During his residency, the plan is for Mr. Hall to work with all of the CEMS band students, speak to CEMS general music classes, and also work with our CEHS music students.
We would like to thank the CE Music Boosters & CEEF for helping to make this residency possible.
