Mississippi Delta Community College (MDCC) recently held its Fine Arts Fall Music Showcase in the Tharp Auditorium in the Yeates Fine Arts Building.
The evening began with Fine Arts Department Chair and Art Instructor Jennifer Woodard welcoming everyone to the event and was followed by Music Instructor Ben Folk introducing The Ambassador Band.
“The Ambassador Band is the real performance ensemble of our entertainment industry studies program,” said Folk who also directs The Ambassador Band. “This group is really focused on playing popular music from a range of styles.”
Folk went on to explain that the event came about from discussions that he had with his students regarding one of the true challenges in music.
“We got to talking about how one of the most challenging things for a performer to do is to put yourself on the line for the audience,” explained Folk. “But when you’re able to overcome those feelings and really put yourself out there for an audience, it’s a really powerful experience.”
The students were encouraged to choose songs to either cover or write to truly represent who they are. Folk explained that the program was a result of that assignment. After performing music from a plethora of genres, the band concluded with a rendition of “We Are the World.”
Director of Choral Activities and Music Instructor Harvey Jackson then introduced the MDCC Singers. Harvey, a new addition to MDCC, noted that this was his first semester to direct the group. Despite this, the choir showed up in force as the largest group to perform.
The Singers performed, “Stars I Shall Find,” “Happy Together,” and the R&B classic, “Rain.”
Band Director and Music Instructor Ryan Jobe then took to the stage to introduce the African Drum and Dance ensemble. Prior to the performance, Jobe invited audience members to come to the stage to dance along with the group.
Jobe noted that more than just musical skills were showcased. Art students were featured in an art exhibit in the Jean Abrams Art Gallery outside of the auditorium prior to the concert and students majoring in Communications handled the door prize announcements.
“This is only the beginning! We are growing, and we have big plans for the next two semesters. Our goal is to provide opportunities for our students to showcase their talents. I believe events like these are wonderful. Our students are awesome, and the world needs to see it!” concluded Jobe. “If any high school students have any interest in the arts, we have a place for you here. The opportunities are growing, the excitement is here, the administrative support is real, and the faculty are awesome. The future is bright!"
