The CSUB Community Concert Band gave a good night of music and fun for people from all ages. “Godzilla eats Las Vegas” includes the score from the film and a mix of classical music from other composers.
Professor and Music Director Gordon Mehling introduced the military marches with inspirational speeches about heroes of the past. The second part of the show was filled with jazz and the movie score made a very special night at the Dore Theatre.
“The community band is supposed to bring people together, especially after September 11. A lot of patriotism was involved in our music tonight,” said Mehling “The band has 67 members and among them are students, lawyers, one policeman, restaurant owners, doctors, nurses, etc.”
The night had a sentimental mood because band member Laverne Schlenker died Feb. 18 and the band honored him with a great performance of “Amazing Grace.”
“He was a gentleman and a gentle man. We mourn our loss and will miss him deeply,” said the memorial to Schlenker in the concert program.
The band played a piece from the movie “The Perfect Storm.”
The tubas and the trombones were used to make the sounds of a the whale.
“With the music the mood changes. We go from very quiet and relaxing music to very fast dances,” said Mehling.
The last piece of the show, “Godzilla Eats Las Vegas,” was the most exciting. The musicians became Elvis. They donned Elvis’ signature glasses, vest, and side burns.
“Godzilla piece is from a composer in Nevada. That piece was from the audience. Everybody had a lot of fun with it,” said Mehling.
Runner@csubak.edu