Michigan—Battle Creek Academy (BCA), recently hosted its semi-annual band festival, “Band Together.” The event consisted of a two-day workshop and concert. Four area schools comprised the workshop: Grand Rapids Adventist Academy, Gobles Jr. Academy, Kalamazoo Jr. Academy, as well as BCA.

Barbara Favorito, professor of music at La Sierra University and University Wind Ensemble director, La Sierra, Calif., was guest clinician for the festival. Favorito commented, “It is always a pleasure to come to Michigan and observe the amount of support given to music by the parents and schools represented, as well as the long history of a quality music program provided by the academy.”

Michele Stark, BCA’s band director pointed out, “This is an opportunity for students who attend smaller schools to participate in a large ensemble of 100 students. It’s awesome for them—and for us. The event comes together through major funding by the Battle Creek Community Foundation and the Calhoun Intermediate School District.”

Michelle Cain, Battle Creek Academy public relations correspondent