Two concerts benefit Gunnison volunteer firefighters

On Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. at the John & Georgie Kincaid Concert Hall, Western hosted its second of two concerts that served as fundraisers for Gunnison’s volunteer firemen. Entry was granted through donations and seating began at 1:30 p.m., when nearly 200 guests came to listen. The concert lasted until 4 p.m.

Before anything else, everyone was asked to rise for the national anthem, which was played by the Colorado Brass Band (CBB) and paired alongside a military style presentation of the flag by the Gunnison Fire Department. The CBB went on to play the first set of songs. Steven Siegel conducted for all but one song, in which Gary Ambroiser served as a guest conductor while Siegel played alongside the band.

After a brief intermission, during which Western President Gregory Salsbury discussed why he feels Western attracts so many students, the Colorado Honor Band (CHB) played their set of songs, with each song featuring a different conductor. In order, “Legacy Overture” was conducted by Andie Wilkins, “Mystery on Mena Mountain” was conducted by Alexander Mohr, “Into the Clouds” was conducted by Michael Black, “Amazing Grace” was conducted by Benjamin Pollock and “Into the Storm” was conducted by Steven Siegel.

Lastly, the Symphonic Honor Band (SHB) was led by Black and Siegel to bring closure to the event, after which Siegel thanked everyone for coming.

“The fire department owes so much to you all for the money you help us raise that helps us keep Gunnison safe,” said Dennis Spitzer, chief of the Gunnison Fire Department, at the conclusion of the Feb. 21 concert.

Story by freshman Pete Rivera.