Well, Dallas Brass did it again!

Before this past week, I spoke about the Dallas Brass and how I thought so many would enjoy their performance.  Well, this past Friday, they came to Van Wert and not only surpassed my expectations in performance, but also exceeded my wishes for inspiration.

Over 800 people made their way to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, many not knowing what to expect. I know this from the comments people made to me following the performance. Regardless of what I say, most are just like Stephen, they need to see it for themselves. I understand. Now, they are believers!

How could five brass instrumentalists, a drummer and a vocalist give such an entertaining performance for the most common of persons to enjoy? Well, I could talk about repertoire, skill, talent and so forth, but I think the real story is found in the love they have to share music with others. And share they did!

During the day, members of Dallas Brass spent time with students from Van Wert and Lincolnview schools. Founder, leader and trombonist Michael Levine has such a passion for sharing his love of music with young people in particular. As the band directors can attest, there just isn’t enough time in the day for him to share his love and passion of music with students. If every teacher had such a passion, it’s hard to say how far a young person might be able to go.

One particular student’s mother was so moved by the work and attention given that she sent a message to Dallas Brass thanking them for accomplishing what she had been attempting to accomplish for two years with her daughter. The daughter wanted to give up on music, but is now motivated to continue and excel. Levine is working on a program to reach young students across America through a program he calls “Harmony Bridge.” It involves students, teachers, community, retirement communities, and service organizations. I am very excited about it. I have a feeling you’re going to hear more about it in the near future.

This is what motivates me to do what I do. This is also what motivates those of us associated with the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Our mission is to entertain, educate and inspire.  With Dallas Brass, we hit a home run with all three!

A sold-out house will welcome Country Music Superstar Josh Turner this Saturday at the NPAC.  We have been sold out for nearly three months for this one. For those fortunate enough to attend, you will be in for quite a production.  I’m sure you will enjoy it.

More inspiration will be spread when five talented children from our area between the ages of 6 and 10 will appear on the Kenny Rogers Christmas Show on December 12. Auditions were just held and there were 26 beautiful and talented boys and girls who showed up. What an opportunity for five exceptionally talented children from our area. You will see and hear them perform on the show. How many cities of 11,000 people can hold auditions to appear on stage with a multi-Grammy Award nominee and winner, movie star, and Country Music Hall of Fame singer such as Kenny Rogers?

We add to that the many local dancers and singers who will participate in the Ballet Theatre of Toledo’s production of The Nutcracker this Christmas season on December 6.  We also had our first chorus rehearsal for the December 14 Messiah performance. You are still welcome to join us this Sunday from 3-5 p.m. at First United Methodist Church for our next rehearsal.

It’s no wonder we say, “Inspiration is Alive!” at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center.

FINÉ.