Fox Cities News

The Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) recently held its annual "Band-O-Rama" concert, showcasing band students from grades 6 through 12. The event took place at Oshkosh North High School on December 14, 2024. It was open to the public and featured a selection of winter-themed musical pieces.

Over 750 students participated in the concert, performing side-by-side across the Oshkosh North Field House floor. Band directors, music educators, and student teachers from across the district led the performances. OASD Superintendent Dr. Bryan Davis welcomed attendees and served as master of ceremonies.

The program included various pieces such as "For the New Day Arisen" by Steve Barton performed by older students, and "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" arranged by Daniel Singer for sixth graders. The finale featured all band students performing "Three Ring Circus," a piece composed specifically for them by Adrian Sims with funding from a SOAR grant.

Students Michael and Gabe shared their reflections on participating in Band-O-Rama. Gabe noted his enjoyment of playing "Midnight Sleighride" due to its rhythms, while Michael appreciated playing snare parts in that song. Both expressed the importance of being role models for younger musicians.

Special thanks were given to Panske Enterprises for providing concert shirts and to Heid Music and SOAR for their support in funding the commissioned piece.