With the hot blue and red lights pouring on his face, Jake Roecker, a second year Commercial Music student at ISU, is solely focused on the movements of his drumsticks. He’s keeping one ear open for his four bandmates, waiting for the perfect opportunity to play them up, emphasizing their talents.
ISU Music
A hum rolled through the crowd. Even though no pieces had been played, the instrument tuning reverberated up the seats of Jensen Hall. Waves of sound crashed from wall to wall from the musician’s slight shivers of movement.
With a subtle cue from director and ISU assistant professor of applied voice and commercial music Jenna McLean, pianist Michael Evans strikes the first chord, followed instantly by Conner Huckaba on drums. McLean slips to the side, offering the occasional snap to keep everyone in rhythm.
The “Joy to the World” concert was a festive event held by the Idaho State-Civic Symphony and various choirs at the Stephen’s Performing Arts Center, attracting thousands. The performance included global music pieces, a Christmas sing-along, and featured the ISU Children’s Chorus for the first time since 2014, captivating audiences with holiday spirit.
Idaho State University hosted the Pedro Giraudo String Quartet’s performance with the Idaho State-Civic Symphony to promote their album “Strata.” The collaboration highlights Giraudo’s innovative tango music. The event featured talented musicians and offered ISU students a unique opportunity to experience live performances of original compositions.