Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Attention! Parents of Choir Students!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Quarter III Ceramic Artwork
In these photos you will see work by Ceramics II students who started the semester creating vessels that communicate a 'state of being' through various handbuilding and wheel throwing techniques. You may view these works on display in the RBHS Art Pit and on Shutterfly.Artworks by Ceramic I students are also pictured here. These artists worked with pottery for the first time by designing and fabricating a set of pinch pots, exploring different surface treatments and glazing techniques in the process.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Dance Fieldtrip to Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago
Guest Dance Teacher -Margi Cole

Thursday, March 11, 2010
AP Studio at the Riverside Arts Center
RB's AP Studio students will host an opening reception at the Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St Riverside IL. from 6-9pm on Friday, March 12. Students will exhibit a selection of their artwork that they will submit to the College Board in May for evaluation to earn AP / college credit. The students exhibiting include Kayla Thompson, Emily Hejna, T Stastny, Zoe Steinberg, Kerry Gawne, Brooke Tennert, Kelly Perfect, Alyssa Carabez, Coleen Fruin and Steven Krejcik. The students will exhibit a range of work using ceramics, inks, acrylics, watercolor, wire, digital prints and photography. The show runs until Friday, April 23, 2010. We hope you get a chance to visit the RAC & enjoy our students artworks
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Music Update
Things are finally starting to settle down a little bit after all the excitement of Solo and Ensemble Contest. Due to a glitch in the computer system, we have yet to receive our judges’ sheets and scores; however they should be coming within the next few days. From what we saw, it looks as if everyone did a great job!
We would like to thank Tom Streeter and the Illinois Wesleyan University Jazz Ensemble for their concert and clinic for our jazz groups last Friday. RB students were treated to a pizza lunch followed by a 45 minute concert by a spectacular sounding group. After the concert both RB bands broke off and worked with Dr. Streeter and his students on Jazz concepts. The whole event was wonderful and we look forward to continuing events like this in the future.
The Musical Pit musicians are busy at work preparing for next weekend’s musical Guys and Dolls. The show looks great! Call the business office and secure your tickets for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at 7:30 PM, or Sunday at 2:00 PM.
The line up for the Dedication Ceremony on March 21st has been created. The event will begin at 3:00 PM in the brand new auditorium and feature many of RB’s musical ensembles.
The Bands will be performing the Auditorium Inaugural Concert (replacing the Winter Concert) March 25th at 7:00 PM. This concert will be featuring many band classics as well as some more contemporary pieces.
As always, please keep us updated to any new and exciting information in your lives!
Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org McOlgank@rbhs208.org
Monday, March 8, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Empty Bowls Project

RBHS ceramic students & Art Club created pottery to contribute to the Empty Bowls Project hosted by Lillstreet Art Center in Ravenswood, Chicago, which will host their event Friday March 5th from 5-8pm. Fundraisers for this charity occur all over the nation, throughout the year, to raise money for local hunger organizations. Refer to the website http://www.emptybowls.net/ for more information!Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
It’s a very exciting and busy week to be in the music department!
The Orchestra will be traveling downtown on Thursday to attend an open rehearsal of the CSO. While at Symphony Center students will have the opportunity to observe one of the world’s best orchestras in rehearsal as well as an open question and answer session with the orchestra at the end of the rehearsal.
On Friday the Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble will be treated to a concert and clinic by the Illinois Wesleyan University Big Band. This band features Jeff and Steve Kutschke, two RB Alums.
Students are busy putting the final touches on their solos and ensembles. The solo contest will be held at Reavis High School in Burbank IL. If students plan to take the bus to the event, the bus will be leaving at 7:30 AM, this is a half hour earlier than the permission slip states. If you haven’t turned in your permission slip yet, we need it now. Even if you do not plan on riding the bus we need your permission slips.
The Dedication Ceremony will begin at 3:00 PM on March 21st. Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Chamber Choir, and Madrigal students should arrive to the band room at 2:00 PM in their concert attire. This will be a great event for our school and community.
Congratulations to Nate Hurst who was given a full scholarship to IIT. Nate is thrilled, and we are thrilled for you!
Also congratulations to all the students who performed at last Tuesday night’s Orchestra and Chamber Music Concert. The orchestra showcased music from female composers, Mr. Baum premiered an arrangement of a Clara Schumann piece, and all the Chamber Ensembles sounded terrific. What a great concert to show off the talent in the entire music department, great job!
Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
Baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Musical Tickets On Sale Now!
Show Dates and Times:
March 11, 12, & 13: 7:30 p.m.
March 14: 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
Congratulations to Ben Mitchell, Sarah Buksa, Maddy Muntean, Phil Priorello, Kevin Dinh, Sarah Otmanski, Kyle Perfect, Becky Pendola, Joe Wilkinson, Sam Romo, Dovas Lietuvninkas, and Annie Mitchell who were all selected to participate in the Metro Suburban Band Festival. These students had a day of intensive rehearsing followed by a concert at night. Great Job!
The Jazz Ensemble was featured at Hackneys of Palos Park last Wednesday evening. Molly Chaney, Abby Gomez de la Casa, and Stephanie Wolff all had their first public solos that night. The whole band sounded great and where well received by the audience. Thank you to all who attended.
The Orchestra and Chamber Music Concert will be tonight at 7:00 PM in the Little Theater. The orchestra has prepared a concert featuring music from female composers, and there are several great ensembles set to perform, you won’t want to miss this!
Permission slips for Solo and Ensemble contest have been distributed. We do not have times just yet, but as soon as we know, we will pass on this information.
The next Tri-M Meeting will be on March 9th.
Cassidy Fritsch and Tre Edwards just acquired new professional level instruments. Congratulations to you both!
Please remember to keep us updated with all that is happening in your lives.
Scincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org and Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Guest Hip Hop Teacher
Monday, February 15, 2010
The Legend That Is "Guys and Dolls"
- "Guys and Dolls" the musical is inspired by two short stories by the writer Damon Runyon. Runyon had a penchant for writing about the underbelly of New York society in the mid-twentieth century. He wrote of gangsters, drinkers, card sharks, and Broadway performers. Runyon himself quit the bottle upon moving to New York City. He almost always wrote in the present tense, and his characters never used contractions and had outlandish nicknames. The musical of "Guys and Dolls" stays true to Runyon's quirky style with characters who say things like "can not" instead of "can't" and have names like Harry the Horse and Brandy Bottle Bates. I feel obliged to bring out the seedy side of 1950's New York in our production "Guys and Dolls." Runyon would want me to!
- Many famous film actors and actresses have played the lead roles in "Guys and Dolls." Not to mention all of the acclaimed stage actors. Below are a few that you may have heard of:
Sky Masterson: Marlon Brando, Peter Gallagher, Ewan McGregor
Sister Sarah Brown: Jessica Biel
Miss Adelaide: Jane Krakowski (30 Rock), Lauren Graham (Gilmore Girls)
Our production opens Friday March 12, and closes Sunday March 14. Times and ticket prices to come. We will see you there. (Not "we'll see you there.")
Ms. Briskman
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Triton Art Competition Closing Reception
RBHS & the Fine Arts Department is proud of the following award winning students…
Ceramics: Sami Romano & Kayla Thompson
Drawing: Natalee Garza, T Stastny & Amanda Stamm
Sculpture: Salem Baer, Steven Krejcik, Tim Hannigan, Shaquita Slater & Jeana Doran
Digital: Brooke Tennert, Tom Cichon & Zoe Steinberg
Photography: Jessica Carlson, Nick Racan, Sofia Soluri, Amber Powers, Maraya Sandoval, Kelly Glavin, Alyssa Carabez, & Kelly Perfect
Printmaking: Cinzia Mundra
Monday, February 8, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
The Winter Concert which was originally on February 11th has been postponed until March
25th. Please mark your calendars!
The Musical is well underway and the Pit Orchestra has finally received their music. The
first rehearsal for Pit Orchestra will be Tuesday after school, but usually the Pit
rehearses on Sunday afternoons.
Congratulations to Natalie Benoy who received a full tuition scholarship to the University
of Pittsburg. Natalie is not sure if she will be attending this school or not, but it is a
great accomplishment none the less.
Registration is well underway, if you have any questions or need help fitting one of the
ensembles in your schedule please contact Mr. Baum for help. Don’t forget to have us
sign your P.E. waivers!
As always, please keep us informed of any news in your life. Also, if you have any photos
of the band that you would like to share, we would like to update our showcases.
Have a great week!
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Sunday, February 7, 2010
2010 Scholastics Art Award Show
Thursday, February 4, 2010
All State 2010
The journey to the IMEA All State Music Festival began last September when students began learning their audition music. Last weekend, three of our choir students made the trip to Peoria, Illinois to participate in the 2010 All State Festival. Nathan Smith sang in the All State Honors Choir under the direction of Jon Hurty of Augustana College. Stephanie Duve and Chris Halline sang in the All State Choir under the direction of Robert Sinclair of VanderCook College of Illinois. Our students returned to school excited about new music and new musical experiences. "You know you're at All-State when..."
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
New Shenanigan's Members
Weekly Instrumental Update
All State was a blast! The teachers came back reinvigorated with new teaching strategies and rehearsal strategies. The students involved had a terrific time as well. They had two solid days of rehearsals followed by two amazing concerts!
The Jazz Band did a great job at Hackneys last Wednesday! Be sure to catch the Jazz Ensemble on February 17th at the same venue at 7:30 PM.
Very Important: The Winter Band Concert will NOT be held on February 11th due to construction. As soon as a new date has been selected we will update our calendars.
If you haven’t marked your calendars yet, please reserve Sunday March 21st for the Dedication Ceremony of the new school. This event will begin at 3:00 PM
Solo and Ensemble contest is approaching fast. All students should be practicing their music for this event.
Tom Kociela, our low brass instructor, was hired by the CSO to play the Rite of Spring and other works for the last two weeks. They went on tour to Michigan and New York. While in New York Tom had the opportunity to play at Carnegie Hall! Tom is just one of many terrific teachers at RB. For more information about how to enroll your students into private lessons, please contact Mr. Baum.
As always please keep us informed of anything new and exciting in your life!
Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
Baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Shenanigans- R.B.'s Improv Troupe
Sincerely-Ms. Briskman
Current Shenanigan's Members (In no particular order) :
Zeyne Guzelderli
Olivia Toriumi
Jacob Palka
Drew Kohler
Paul Landahl
Sara Nie
Nick Rauba
Connor Halline
Andrew Brondos
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Art Club & Special Olympics Fundraiser

Thank you sponsors: A Sound Education, Aunt Diana's, Bill's Place, Brennan's Spa, Brixie's, Brookfield Express Car Wash, Brookfield's True Value Hardware, Cafe Salsa, Chew Chew Cafe, Christopher Mark Flowers, LaCabinita, Loca Mocha Coffee House, Ryan's Public House, Tischler's, Tony's Breakfast Cafe, Tequila Mockingbird
Audition Drama
Ms. Briskman
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
Welcome to semester two! This is a very exciting week for the faculty and several students who will be traveling to Peoria IL on Wednesday for the IMEA All State Convention. Congratulations to Molly Chaney, Kevin Dihn, and Ben Mitchell for their tremendous accomplishments!
The Jazz Band has been invited to play at Hackneys of Palos Park on Wednesday evening starting at 7:30 PM. They will be opening for the Brass tracks Big Band. You won’t want to miss this evening of great music!
This Sunday Volunteers are needed to form a pep band. Students will be playing for the 8th grade Day of Champions from 2:00 Pm until 3:00 PM.
Mark your calendars! The entire music department has been invited to help usher in the festivities at the Dedication Ceremony for the newly renovated building on March 21st. we know that we will be playing several combined tunes and that it will be in the afternoon; more details to follow.
Solo and Ensemble entries have been submitted. Students should now have their solo and or ensemble chosen as well as hired an accompanist for their solos. It is standard to have to pay an honorarium to your accompanist; the rate varies based on how many practices you schedule before your event as well as the pianist credentials.
Are you planning a trip this summer? Be sure to check the calendar for marching band conflicts. The Freshmen Band Camp will run from June 14th through July 2nd, Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM until 3:00 PM. On Monday nights during that time we also have marching band practice for the Independence Day Parades from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. In august Marching Band Camp runs from the 16th to the 19th from 12:00 Pm until 6:00 PM. It is important that all students involved in marching attend the August camp where students learn the drill for next year’s half time show.
Congratulations to Casey Creedon who has acquired a new viola! Step up instruments can greatly improve your students tone and overall enjoyment in music.
Interested in a summer music camp? There are scholarships available to help cover the costs of these enriching camps. Thank you to Mrs. Wade for sending in this link to one such scholarship application: http://carlosfund.org/scholarship_application
Please remember to keep us updated on any music accomplishments you may have!
Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgnan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Friday, January 22, 2010
Auditorium Update

Friday, January 15, 2010
RB's DANCE CONCERT is TONIGHT
Dancers will be performing choreography by guest choreographers Jon Lehrer and Donnette Cannonie. Student choreographers include: Lauren DeRosier, Natalie Godlewski, Danielle Kovack, Melissa Pruitt, and Tiffany Guel-Blanco.
More About Guys and Dolls
This year's musical is one of the most famous musical's of all time, and one of the all time most successful musicals ever to hit broadway. Below is a short synopsis from http://website.lineone
New York, the city that never sleeps. And within it, all human life. From the news seller to the chorus girl, from the gambler to the missionary - all of them caught up in the teeming vitality of the city streets.
Sergeant Sarah Brown, of the Save a Soul Mission, vainly trying to spread the Word, and make a difference to the sin and depravity of the streets, full of tipsters, gamblers and con men. Adelaide, the showgirl, desperate to leave behind her seemingly glamorous lifestyle for a white picket fence and roses round the door. Nathan Detroit, trying to find yet another new location for his floating dice game, keeping just one short step ahead of the law. And the gamblers themselves, eager for just one more roll, for that winning streak which will keep them ahead of the game. And the coolest, highest roller of them all, Sky Masterson, who would bet on anything that would turn him a profit.
GUYS AND DOLLS CAST LIST
Sarah- Stephanie Duve
Sky- Galen Ryan
Adelaide- Becky Pendola
Nathan- Zeyne Guzelderli
Arvide- Katelyn Reynolds
General-Olivia Toriumi
Nicely- Kyle Perfect
Benny- Jacob Palka
Harry- Jeremy Fong
Lt. Brannigan- Nathan Smith
Big Jule- Drew Kohler
Rusty- Max Marciniak
Joey- Connor Halline
Agatha- Theresa Schmidt
Mimi- Sara Nie
Waiter/Dancer in Havana- Dovas Lietuvninkas
MC/Waiter at the Hot Box- Andrew Brondos
Angie the Ox- Jaden Cruz
Hot Box Girls:
Allison Hornung
Sara Nie
Annie Mitchell
Olivia Toriumi
Olivia Landa
Samantha Friend
Sam Goldsmith
Molly Chaney
Mary Heer
Lauren Krolasik
Missionaries:
Theresa Schmidt
Rachel Ramos
Tre Edwards
Allison Nicolai
Lia Purdy
Grace Mikus
Kaylee Weinert
Lauren Hettasch
Masha Yulanova
Jeremiah Payne
Gangsters:
Dovas Lietuvninkas
Andrew Brondos
Aron Perfect
Mike Vrablik
Kevin Smaller
Mitchell Malloy
Student Assistant Director:
Lorelei Volpe
Dance Captain:
Brigit Collazo
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Guys and Dolls
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Mural Painters to be Recognized!

Monday, January 11, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
Students are busy preparing auditions for next year’s ensembles. All auditions need to be heard by Friday January 15th.
At this time students should have their solo and/or ensembles chosen for the contest on March 6th. As always, if you need any help preparing your music please ask Mr. Baum or Mr. McOlgan.
The Jazz Band students are working hard to prepare for their performance at Hackneys on January 27th. Be sure to invite all your friends, relatives, and neighbors to this jazz filled evening.
We would like to welcome Andy Macaione to the RB music department. Mr. Macaione will be student teaching at RB and Hauser simultaneously through early May.
Maggie McLaughlin just purchased a new cello, congratulations. Step up instruments are crucial to improving tone.
Congratulations to Alex Lutz who was accepted to Belmont University in Nashville Tennessee. While there, Alex hopes to purse a degree in music business.
Musically yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Friday, January 8, 2010
Congratulations to the 2010 Winter Art Show Award Winners
Best of Show: 2D - Zoe Steinberg
Best of Show: 3D - Samantha Romano
Viewers’ Choice Award: Angela Bochucinski
Riverside Arts Center Freeark Gallery Award
Tom Cichon, Lisa Stephan, & Haley St. Paul
Ceramics: (Functional)
1st Place: Samantha Romano
Honorable Mention: Colleen Lucas
Honorable Mention: Jon Schereck
Painting:
1st Place: Angela Bochucinski
Honorable: Kayla Thompson
Honorable Mention: T Stastny
Digital Imaging:
1st Place: Zoe Steinberg
Honorable Mention: Brooke Tennert
Honorable Mention: Sean Hennessy
Photography: (Advanced)
1st Place: Kelly Perfect
Honorable: Alyssa Carabez
Honorable Mention: Samantha Friend
Honorable Mention: Kerry Gawne
Drawing: (Advanced)
1st Place: T Stastny
Honorable Mention: Zoe Steinberg
Honorable Mention: Kayla Thompson
Honorable Mention: Angela Bochucinski
Photography: (Novice)
1st Place: Amber Powers
Honorable Mention: Daniel Gonzalez
Honorable Mention: Sofia Soluri
Honorable Mention: Maraya Sandoval
Drawing: (Novice)
1st Place: Andrea Varaneckas
Honorable Mention: Kevin Garcia
Honorable Mention: Cassie Cook
Honorable Mention: Jordan Purdy
Printmaking:
1st Place: Angela Bochucinski
Honorable Mention: Maria Arevalo
Honorable Mention: Zoe Steinberg
Mixed Media:
1st Place: Emily Hejna
Honorable Mention: Alyssa Carabez
Honorable Mention: Kelly Glavin
Sculpture:
1st Place: Jackie Cedano
Honorable Mention: Colleen Fruin
Honorable Mention: Ashley Lozano
Honorable Mention: Sean McGonagill
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
2010 Winter Art Show Opens!
Everyone is invited to attend the 2010 Winter Art Show! The Opening Reception takes place this Thurs. Jan 7 at 6pm. The exhibit is located upstairs near the new Northwest Entrance in the Art Pit & Room 201. Come view the work of RB's Art Department students & the award winning artists! A new documentary covering the historic Arcade Mural Project, created by the RBTV Department, will be shown at the exhibit & available for purchase. A BIG THANK YOU goes out to Gary Prokes, RB's Art Department, numerous local art educators, local artists & the Riverside Arts Center Board Members for volunteering their time to select the winners for the various awards for the show. Monday, January 4, 2010
Weekly Instrumental Update
We hope you all had a great holiday with your family; it’s great to be back!
All students should be forming ensembles and searching for appropriate solos for Solo and Ensemble Contest to be held on March 6th, 2010. If they need help they should see either Mr. Baum or Mr. McOlgan.
Tri-m will be meeting next tuesday at 7:15 AM in the Band room.
The Jazz Band students are hard at work preparing for their appearance at Hackneys on January 27th. Be sure to invite all your friends and relatives, it promises to be a very fun evening!
Cadet and Concert Band students should be busy preparing their scales for Symphonic Band auditions. Any student interested in auditioning for Symphonic Band, either Jazz Band, or Chamber Orchestra has to be heard by January 15th.
Congratulations to Ben Mitchell who acquired a new Conn 8d French Horn over the holiday!
As always, keep us posted on your achievements!
Musically yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org McOlgank@rbhs208.org
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Winter Art Show Opens Soon! Help Needed!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Nutcracker Fieldtrip
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Open Art Studios over Winter Break!

Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
National Trust for Historic Preservation highlights RB Art Students!
The National Trust for Historic Preservation covers the Arcade Mural Project and the work of our RBHS Art students! Follow the link below to see the story...http://www.preservationnation.org/resources/teaching-preservation/mural.html
Monday, December 14, 2009
Dancers Perform at Riverside and Brookfield Holiday Festivals
Holiday Concert Photos Uploaded to Shutterfly!
http://rbhsfineartsdepartment.shutterfly.com/2713
Weekly Instrumental Update
Congratulations to the entire music department for their great performances last week at the Holiday Concert. This concert was a tremendous success despite the fact that it was held in the main gym. All the groups sounded great! A special thank you to Cory Reynolds who assisted Mr. Baum in engineering the set-up and the sound for the concert. Be sure to watch for pictures to be posted on the Fine Arts website!
Cheesecakes will be in tomorrow after school! Please come pick them up
The down payment for everyone going on this year’s instrumental music trip is due tomorrow. The amount due tomorrow is $100; checks can be made to Entourage Management. You won’t want to miss this trip!
With the Holiday Concert behind us, and winter break beginning next week, this is the ideal time to choose and start working on your solo and ensemble pieces for the first Saturday in March. If you need help, please ask Mr. McOlgan or Mr. Baum.
Happy Holidays,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Mural Project covered in the Tribune

Thursday, December 10, 2009
Concert tonight!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Weekly Instrumental Update
Things are really moving fast towards Thursday’s Holiday Concert and Assembly. The concert begins on Thursday night at 7:00. Tickets will be on sale at the door for $5. Bring your seat cushion!
Students have several before and after school rehearsals to remember in preparation for Thursday. On Wednesday afternoon at 3:15 we will be holding a dress rehearsal for the Halleluiah Chorus in the main gym. On Thursday morning all students should arrive to school by 7:45 AM in their formal concert wear. We will then rehearse all of our combined pieces. After the assembly students will have time to change into more comfortable clothing for the rest of the day. The call time for Thursday evening is 6:30; again students should wear their formal concert wear to the concert. No student should leave any formal attire in the band room as uniforms will be returned at the end of the year. We can not be responsible for anything left in school. Students have been provided with tuxedos or skirts, but need to supply their own white dress top and black dress shoes. Gentlemen also need to provide their own bow ties. A limited supply of bow ties is available for purchase at $5 a piece.
Tri-M had their annual holiday field trip to hear Chicago Acapella bring in the holiday season. As is the tradition, students met at Erick’s Deli to eat diner and socialize. The whole evening was a blast!
Congratulations to the Chamber Orchestra who performed beautifully on Sunday afternoon for a private event in Riverside.
A big thank you to the Jazz Combo for playing outside in the cold at the Riverside Holiday Walk. These students played for the unveiling of the new murals on the arcade building, congratulations to the Art Department for such great work.
Also, thank you to all the parents who have volunteered to help on Thursday night with seating, ticket sales, and the after party. If you would like to volunteer to help, please contact Mr. Hite, president of Music Sponsors, at RBHSMusicSponsors@yahoogroups.com
We look forward to seeing you and all your family friends and neighbors at the Holiday concert on Thursday night!
Musically yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Friday, December 4, 2009
Arcade Mural Unveiled Tonight!!!!
Please join the Village of Riverside's Mural Committee for the opening celebration of the Arcade Building Mural Project, a community based public art project intended to preserve and raise awareness of "one of Illinois top ten most endangered landmarks." The celebration begins tonight Friday Dec. 4 at 5pm with RB's Jazz Combo at the Arcade Building & then at 5:15pm a short ceremony. All participating artists will be able to sign their names on the mural too! So come out and enjoy a warm drink and get to know the artists!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
All State Choir, District Choir and upcoming performances
Congratulations to Stephanie Duve, Chris Halline and Nathan Smith! They were selected to sing in the All State Choirs in January. Being a member of this very select choir is a great accomplishment.
Weekly Instrumental Update
Things are really speeding up around the instrumental music department as we prepare for our Holiday Concert on December 10th at 7:00 PM in the main gym. Tickets will be available on that night at the door for $5.
Preliminary permission slips for our trip to Cleveland over Memorial Day weekend are due on December 15th. You won’t want your child to miss this tremendous opportunity. Mr. Baum describes this trip as “one of my most cherished memories from high school.” The first installment of $100 is due on December 15th. If you have not received an itinerary please let us know and we’ll be sure to send one home with you student.
Both the Jazz Band and the Jazz Ensemble will be featured at “We are RB” on Wednesday night. Stop by the Little Theater between 6:30 and 8:00 to listen!
The Chamber Orchestra will be playing this weekend for a private event in Riverside. They will be playing holiday selections as well as movements from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. The group is available for hire through contacting Mr. Baum.
Congratulations to Molly Chaney, Kevin Dinh, and Ben Mitchell who were selected to represent RB at the IMEA All-State this January. This is a huge honor for these students and our school!
Musically Yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Dancers Perform at Veteran's Day Assembly
NY Choreographer teaches at RB
Fine Arts Survey Student Dance in Class
Monday, November 23, 2009
Weekly Instrumental Update
Congratulations to Sarah Buksa who just purchased a Buffet professional A Clarinet.
Also Congratulations to Molly Chaney, Kevin Dinh, Ben Mitchell, and Maddy Muntean who participated in IMEA District 1 Band, and to Kenzo Esqivel who participated in District 1 Orchestra. These students rehearsed all day last Saturday on very challenging pieces with students from all over the Chicago land area.
Kevin Dinh, Ben Mitchell, and Sarah Otmanski all performed this weekend at Navy Pier with the Protege Philharmonic. This is an honors orchestra that features students from all over Chicago land. Great job!
All students have been fitted with concert uniforms. Students should have taken these home by now. Our thanks to Mrs. Strika and Mrs. Glavin for taking on this task!
Instrumental music students should begin selecting and rehearsing their contest solo and/or ensemble.
A reminder: we have terrific teachers that come out to the school every week to teach private lessons. These teachers teach at highly competitive rates. All students should strongly consider taking from these teachers, including any younger students you might have at the grade school. Please contact Mr. Baum for a list of teachers or to talk about their credentials.
Placement for 10-11 school year is coming up shortly. Any non-senior student in concert band, cadet band, jazz band, or who are coming over as a freshman next year should prepare scales and an etude for their audition. In-coming freshmen please contact Mr. McOlgan or Mr. Baum to schedule an audition.
Looking forward to our Holiday Concert on December 10th. Tickets are $5 and will not be pre-sold for this event.
Have a terrific Thanksgiving!
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
Baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mural Project: On Site Painting
RBHS art students and artists from the Riverside Arts Center worked together to complete the large Fall panel on Quincy Ave. and the panels near the West entrance of the Arcade building. Students endured the cold weather during their days off of school last Thursday & Friday. Everyone is looking forward to the mural unveiling ceremony set for Dec. 4 at 5:00pm prior to the Holiday Stroll in downtown Riverside. We invite all student artists and their families to attend this exciting event!
IMEA Jazz Festival
On November 14, Stephanie Duve, Olivia Toriumi and Nathan Smith sang with the District 1 Vocal Jazz Ensemble. They were among the 32 fine singers selected through audition to participate in the IMEA Jazz Festival. OUr students sang under the direction of Mr. Jim Yarborough. The singers enjoyed the day and the music they sang. Stephanie and Olivia sang the solo section of their favorite piece, "Butterfly". As always, we had great parental support in the audience!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Weekly Instrumental Music Update
Congratulations to Elliot Louthen and Jim Sit who participated in this year’s IMEA District 1 Jazz Festival all day Saturday. Both played beautifully on very challenging repertoire.
Congratulations to Dennis Potamianos who was awarded to the rank of Eagle Scout last Sunday!
Another very exciting and busy week lies ahead of us.
All week students will be fitted for concert uniforms. Special thanks to Denise Stika for fitting all the students with their uniforms. Girls must provide their own white blouse and black dress shoes. Boys must provide their own white tux shirt, black socks, black dress shoes and bow tie. Bow ties and tux shirts are available in limited supply through the music department for $5 each. All uniforms will be coming home this week.
Also going home today is the preliminary permission slip for our Instrumental trip to Cleveland Ohio. This is a great trip for our department, we will be visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, hearing the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra, and spending a day at Cedar Point. A deposit is due on December 15th.
Ad Book sales (used to help fund the trip, or music sponsors) are due on Friday.
On Tuesday we will be hosting the Feeder School Band Festival. Over 100 students from Gross, Hauser, Komarek and our parochial schools will be here from 10:00 - 1:00 to rehears music and learn about band music offerings at RB.
On Wednesday night Orchestra students will be traveling down to Millennium Park's Harris Theater to hear the Chicago College of Performing Arts Orchestra play Beethoven's 3rd Symphony as well as CSO Principal Trombonist Jay Friedman and Principal Trumpet Chris Martin play 20th century works for their instruments.
Finally, on Saturday Molly Chaney, Kevin Dinh Kenzo Esquivel, Ben Mitchell, and Maddy Muntean will be participating in this year's IMEA District Festival. Congratulations, selection into this festival is a very high honor.
Musically Your’s,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
Baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Hauser Jr. High Art Students Help Paint the Arcade Mural
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Ceramics: News & Artwork
Monday, November 9, 2009
Weekly Instrumental Update
What an exciting and short week ahead. After several weeks of preparation the Veterans Day Assemblies are upon us. Students are very much looking forward to treating our guests and the rest of the student body to a program filled with patriotic melodies in commemoration of the time our veterans spent on our behalf.
Last week all students in the music department received their ad book sales packet and their cheese cake sales packet. They should be out working to fund their trip and support the Music Sponsors.
This Saturday Jim Sit and Elliot Louthen will be performing at the District 1 IMEA Jazz Festival. This year's festival will be held at Lyons Township High School (south campus), this is a change from what is in the blue student handbook. Congratulations Jim and Elliot!
Also congratulations to instrumentalists Coleen Fruin, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Corey Reynolds, Nathan Smith, Aimee Patterson, and Alex Paterson and the rest of the cast and crew who had a terrific run with this year's fall play, The Murder Room!
We look forward to seeing you at Parent Teacher Conferences!
Musically Yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Arcade Mural Project: Week 2

RBHS Drawing & Painting students, along with Art Club & St. Mary art students continued to work on the panels for the Riverside's Arcade This Place Matters Mural. The students worked long days, nights & weekends to complete the four Spring Season Panels. The panels included imagery of Riverside's Library, the swing bridge, the Des Plaines River & Swan Pond. We would like to thank Noelle Bajohr, one of RB's librarian / computer lab assistant, for finding a great book on Riverside's history. The book provided wonderful pictures & information on the village's past that helped us complete the panels! We can't forget about all of the local artists, Gail Sellers, Jenifer Henderson-Taylor, Nancy Hejna & more for all of the assistance too. This upcoming week we look forward to hosting Hauser art students on Tuesday Nov. 10 & traveling onsite to work on the Arcade Building on Thursday Nov. 12 & Friday Nov. 13. Stay tuned for more mural updates!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Guest Dance Teacher from University of Indiana Teaches at RB
Repertory Dance Ensemble Performs at Dance Slam
Monday, November 2, 2009
Weekly Instrumental Update
Were are very excited to have the entire music department perform at the Veterans Day assembly.
It's not too early to begin thinking about the solo and ensemble contest coming up this February.
The Chamber Orchestra performed last Wednesday for the Fine Arts Survey "Informance". They played the first movement from Vivaldi's "Autumn" beautifully after three early morning rehearsals. The Chamber Orchestra is a newly formed group dedicated to playing original literature. To hire this orchestra for your private events please contact Mr. Baum.
Be sure to watch the WGN Morning News on Monday, November 9th as the Shout Section Big Band will be featured on their "Around Town" segment. Ms. Pilson, S.E. Gross' Band Director, and Mr. Baum are both members of this Big Band.
The Ad book information will be sent home on Tuesday. Students should begin to sell ads for our holiday concert program as soon as they receive this packet. Proceeds from this fundraiser can be used to help fund this year's Instrumental Music trip.
Musically yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
Baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org
Friday, October 30, 2009
Madrigal Singers perform!
The RBHS Madrigals performed at the Hines VA Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 28. They were asked to sing in the Pastoral Concert Series held this week. The performance took place in the Chapel. Although the audience in the chapel was not large, the Madrigals were televised throughout the chapel. Hundreds of people watched and listened to the concert while in their hospital beds.
The Madrigals will be very active in the weeks to come. Please check the calendar to find out about their upcoming performances.
