High school bands joining forces for Groundhog Day concert in McKeesport

By Michael Richter
mrichter@yourmvi.com
It’s uncertain whether or not Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow, but one thing is for certain tomorrow: a music-filled evening at the Groundhog Day Festival concert at McKeesport Area High School.
More than 70 band students from McKeesport Area, Clairton, South Allegheny and West Mifflin Area high schools will perform with the direction of guest conductor Betsy Heath-Charles at the annual concert.
The band students will spend tomorrow morning and afternoon rehearsing before the concert’s start at 7 p.m. in the MAHS auditorium.
It will involve performances of songs such as “The Bonsai Tree,” Chorale and Shaker Dance II” and “To Honor, Thank and Remember.”
The students will also perform, under Heath-Charles’ direction, a collection of “Star Wars” tunes by the legendary composer and conductor John Williams, including Darth Vader’s theme “Imperial March” and the main theme from the movie franchise.

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