Artwork Returns to RB

Five panels from Riverside's Arcade building have returned to RB for permanent display.  The panels were painted by art students and show the community in the fall.  This amazing piece is located just inside the new main entrance.  Enjoy! 

RBHS Theatre announces 'The Wiz'

The stage is set for our spring musical, The Wiz.  Ease on down to RB for shows on March 17-19.

The Wiz is an adaptation of the original The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.  Suffering from life's struggles, Dorothy finds herself transported to the land of Oz where she meets a few new friends in an effort to return home.

Musical workshops are open to ALL students:
Choir Room
Monday, December 13
Girls 3:15 – 3:45 p.m.
Boys 3:45 – 4:15 p.m.

Tuesday, December 14
Boys 3:15 -3:45 p.m. Music
All 3:45 – 4:00 p.m. Acting Workshop
Girls 4:00 – 4:30 p.m. Music

AUDITION DATES
Tuesday, January 11 – Singing
Wednesday, January 12 – Singing
Thursday, January 13 – Dancing
Friday, January 14 – Call Backs

Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Music Community,


Congratulations to all music students who represented RB at this year’s IMEA District festival. It was an exceptionally great year with 19 choir students, 4 band students and 3 orchestra students participating from RB. Dovas Lietuvninkas, Kevin Dinh, and Molly Chaney all sat first chair in their sections!

Last week we held our annual feeder school band festival. Over 80 eight graders joined us for full day of rehearsals and community building. It was very exciting to see our 8th graders so spirited about being a part of band next year; we look forward to seeing them soon!

December 1st, will be “We are RB”. Both Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble will be performing during the evening. Although this is an evening targeting 8th graders, all are welcome to attend our performances this evening.

We are busy preparing for our Holiday Concerts. This year the concerts will be held on the evenings of December 8th and 9th beginning at 7:00 PM. Pre-orders for tickets went home with all music students today and are due back by December 3rd. Tickets will also be available at the door, but to guarantee entry, please consider pre-ordering.

Thank you to all the mothers who have been helping to fit the band students in their concert attire. Men wear tux’s (provided by the school), black dress shoes and socks, tux shirts, and bow ties. Ladies wear black skirts (provided by the school), black dress shoes, and white blouses that cover to the elbow at a minimum. Once the mothers have fitted students with their uniforms, the students should take them home. If you need us to order a shirt or a bow tie, please let us know.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Congratulations to the Music Department

The RB Music Department was well represented at the IMEA Music Festival this past Saturday.  Nineteen members sang in the Senior choir, four in the band and three in the orchestra.  Mrs. Marelli was the piano accompanist for the Senior Choir, directed by Dr. David Rayl of Michigan State University.  Mr. McOlgan accompanied with Mrs. Marelli for the final piece, "El Vito".  Congratulations to everyone!

Band: Kevin Dinh, Cassidy Fritsch, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Ben Mitchell
Orchestra: Molly Chaney, Kelsey Dickenson, Sarah Otmanski
Choir: Trent Baer, Ben Bergstrom, Andrew Brondos, Haley Buntrock, Taylor Dalton, Nathan Dimaano, Tre Edwards, Eileena Giurini, Tom Linehan, Max Marciniak, Sara Nie, Andrew Payton, Becky Pendola, Araon Perfect, Kyle Perfect, Kristin Ripoli, Clarissa Shaw, James Wang, Kaylee Weinert

The Good Doctor is a Hit!

Audiences cheered for RBHS Theatre's rendition of Neil Simon's The Good Doctor.  Images of the show can be viewed on our Photo page or click here.  Great work cast and crew!  

Vocal Jazz at IMEA

Congratulations to Clara Shaw.  She was selected to participate in the IMEA Jazz Vocal Ensemble this past Saturday, November 13.  As one of only 32 students in the group, it was quite an honor to sing in this fine group.  The Festival was hosted by Fenton High School. Dr. Steve Widenhofer of Milliken University was the director of the Vocal Jazz Ensemble. 

Bulldog Music Fundraiser November 16

You are invited to attend the First Annual Bulldog Music Fundraiser.  The recital which will feature students, parents and faculty members will begin at 7 p.m.on Tuesday evening, November 16,  in the RB auditorium.  Mr. Baum on bari saxophone, Mr. Monti on guitar, and Mrs. Marelli on piano will all be featured along with parents and students.  Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students.  Funds will help defray costs of the upcoming choir trip to Orlando, Florida.

Portraits Inspired from Visiting Artist

Over the past several weeks Drawing/Painting III and AP Studio art students have been using Skype to work with artist Gwenn Seemel.  Each student created a portrait learning from Gwenn's unique style.  Enjoy!

Learn about the RB Fine Arts

RB Theatre Presents The Good Doctor

The Theatre Department will perform Neil Simon's The Good Doctor on Friday and Saturday.  The show is a series of comedic short stories based on the Russian writer Chekhov.  Show times are Friday at 7:30p, Saturday at 2:00p, and Saturday at 7:30p.  Hope to see you!

RBHS Music Department Makes Semi-Finals

Congratulations to the RB Music Department who, along with 130 school nation wide, and 13 schools state wide, where selected to move into the semi-final round of the prestigious Grammy Signature Schools Competition. Students and faculty will now be working to submit a recording for the audition committee to consider for the next round. Last year 12 schools were selected as a Grammy Signature School. Good luck Bulldogs!

Online Student Art Gallery

Take a moment to view RB student artwork on our new online gallery.  The images will be updated with new artwork during the fall, winter, and spring seasons.  You can access the gallery from the RBHS home page, the Fine Arts website, or by clicking here.

All of the pieces are a result of the hard work by students and staff.  Great work artists! 

Ceramics News: Raku Firing @ RBHS 11.12.10

Big news! Our advanced ceramics students are building an outdoor kiln to fire their pottery in at RBHS on Friday November 12th! With the help of visiting artist Tim Pfiffner and Ms. Bartelson, these artists will be on site performing this process throughout the day, while our beginning students have the privilege of viewing this fascinating scientific and creative process live.

Raku is an ancient Japanese pottery firing technique whereas you glaze pottery, fire it in a kiln for about a half hour, remove the pieces with tongs while they are extremely hot, drop it in a garbage can full of combustible materials, smother the flames with the lid, and lastly quench the works in water for an iridescent finish… if it is still in one piece. If that peaks your interest, you can read more about raku firing, watch a demo, or stop the east side of the school in two weeks to see the magic yourself!

view gallery

Also, take a moment to view our current online Ceramics Gallery of student work, and mark your calendar for the RBHS Winter Art Show the week of December 14th in the Art Pit. Enjoy!http://rbhsfineartsdepartment.shutterfly.com/4444

Repertory Dancers Perform at University of Chicago

On Friday, October 22nd RB's Repertory Dance Ensemble participated in Chicago's Dance Slam . "Chase," choreographed by Girodano dancer Robert McKee was performed by nine dancers. Dancers performed on the campus of the University of Chicago at the historic Mandall Hall Theatre. The dancers enjoyed performing for a sold out audience and sharing the stage with other local dancers. The dancers ended their evening by walking around campus and taking in the sights of beautiful buildings and pedestrian walkways. It was a memorable evening enjoyed by all. Congratulations to our dancers on another stellar performance.

Twenty-Nine Dancers go to the Joffrey Ballet

On Thursday, October 21st twenty-nine dance students attended the Joffrey Ballet performace of "All Stars." "All Stars" was performed at the Auditorium Theatre in downtown Chicago. The evening consisted of four different ballets featuring choreography by Jerome Robbins, George Balanchine and Christopher Weldon. The next day in class dancers discussed the athleticism and beauty of the Joffrey dancers and choreographed a movement phrase inspired by the evening's performance. Many of the dancers are looking forward to returning to see the Joffrey Ballet perform America's #1 ballet, The Nutcracker.

Choir News

Congratulations to the following students who were selected to represent RB at this year’s IMEA District 1 festival: In Vocal Jazz Ensemble: Clara Shaw.  For Choir: Trent Baer, Ben Bergstrom, Andrew Brondos, Haley Buntrock, Taylor Dalton, Nathan Dimaano, Tre Edwards, Eileena Gurini, Thomas Linehan, Max Marciniak, Sara Nie, Andrew Payton, Becky Pendola, Kyle Perfect, Aron Perfect, Kristin Ripoli, Clarissa Shaw, James Wang, and Kaylee Weinert. For Band: Kevin Dinh, Cassidy Fritsch, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Ben Mitchell. For Orchestra: Molly Chaney, Kelsey Dickeson, and Sarah Otmanski. The Jazz Festival will be held on November 13 and Choir, Band and Orchestra on November 20. 

Be sure to tune in to the RBEF Telethon tomorrow, October 23.  The Madrigals will perform between 2 and 3 and Men's Ensemble will perform between 3 and 4.  And you may even see a choir director in the "Dancing with the Staff" segment at about 2:15.  Her dance partner is none other than Jacob Palka!

Last Friday, the choirs were treated to a performance by "The Pikers", an a cappella group from Washington University in St. Louis.  Chris Halline, a 2010 graduate, is singing with the group.  It was such fun to hear the group and to see Chris again!

The Parent/Student Recital is planned for November 16.  If you would like to perform in this exciting fundraiser, please fill out an application next week.  Entry fee is $5.00.  We would also appreciate backstage help as well!

Photo 3 Students Art Show Opening

The first Visual Art Department Art Show of the semester is featuring the Photo 3 students photo artwork.  Please stop by and see the wonderful images and enjoy a coffee at the same time.
Friday Oct 21, 2010, 4pm - 6pm at Locha Mocha, 8836 Brookfield Ave in Brookfield.  Show will run until Nov 5, 2010.

Weekly Music Update

Dear Music Community,


Congratulations to the following students who were selected to represent RB at this year’s IMEA District 1 festival: For Band: Kevin Dinh, Cassidy Fritsch, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Ben Mitchell. For Orchestra: Molly Chaney, Kelsey Dickeson, and Sarah Otmanski. For Choir: Trent Baer, Ben Bergstrom, Andrew Brondos, Haley Buntrock, Taylor Dalton, Nathan Dimaano, Tre Edwards, Eileena Gurini, Thomas Linehan, Max Marciniak, Sara Nie, Andrew Payton, Becky Pendola, Kyle Perfect, Aron Perfect, Kristin Ripoli, Clarissa Shaw, James Wang, and Kaylee Weinert.

Last Sunday the Chamber Orchestra performed it’s first recital of the year. The orchestra performed works by Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg and Molly Chaney performed a solo. Congratulations on a wonderful job!

Thank you to Jim Colombo and the Hauser Jazz Band for hosting the Annual Hauser Jazz Festival last Tuesday. Both the RB Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble were invited to perform along with the Gross Jazz Band and the Hauser Jazz Band at this year’s festival. You hip Jazz Cats sound great!

Friday during school all performing ensembles will have their pictures taken. The Marching band will be wearing their marching uniforms; all other ensembles are to wear concert dress attire.

This Friday Night will be senior night at the home football game. Parents of Seniors in Band should arrive to the football field at 6:45 to be honored along with your senior.

Saturday is the RBEF Telethon, be sure to tune in around 4:00 to hear the Jazz Ensemble perform, and around 5:00 to hear the Chamber Orchestra perform. Mr. McOlgan will also be performing throughout the day with various singers. Jazz Ensemble members should arrive to school by 3:30, Chamber orchestra members should arrive to school by 4:30.

Congratulations to David Monreal who recently purchased a brand new Selmer Reference Alto Saxophone.

Please keep us informed of all your musical accomplishments!



Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

baumj@rbhs208.org McOlgank@rbhs208.org

Repertory Dance Performs at Dance Slam

On Friday, October 22nd the RB's Repertory Dance Ensemble will perform Chase, choreographed by guest choreographer Robert McKee at the historic Mandall Hall Theatre in Chicago. Go to http://www.dancechicago.com/for tickets. Be sure to use code DC2010 for a 5.00 discount. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.

It's Dance Chicago's award-winning interactive dance competition with a non-stop beat! Each work is five minutes or less and the audience votes for the winners! Famous Chicago and National choreographers and dancers got their start here. Who is providing the next generation of star power? - Come and decide for yourself. This is the biggest Chicago dance competition of the season - from breaking to ballet! FAST AND FURIOUS.

Fall Choir Concert Set to Air on RBTV

The Fall Choir Concert will air Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:05pm.  All of our choirs will be performing including Bass/Treble Choir, Concert Chorale, Chamber Choir, and Madrigal Singers.  Our talented students can be viewed on http://www.rbtv.tv/, channel 16 (Comcast users), and channel 99 (AT&T U-verse users).

Weekly Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Community,


Congratulations to all the students who auditioned for IMEA district Festival last night at Hinsdale central High School. IMEA provides students with an honors music festival with some of our nation’s best directors. Results will be posted soon, look for more updates.

This Friday night we will be hosting 8th graders for Band Night. The feeder school band students will join us as we march around the track, on the field for Pre-Game, and in the stands as we cheer on our team and community!

The Hauser Jazz Festival is next Tuesday October 19th, at 7:00 PM at Hauser Jr. High. The night will feature the bands of Hauser Jr. High, Gross Middle School, and both jazz bands from RB. Be sure to invite all your friends!

On October 22nd we will have our last home game where our seniors and their parents are honored. Parents of seniors, please plan on attending and look for more details to come on this event.

Practice tonight has been postponed until 6:30. We will be finished no later than 8:00 PM. It is very important that all students attend to prepare for Fridays performance. This will be our last practice of the season.

Congratulations to Alex Muntean who auditioned and was accepted into the Western Springs School of Talent Education. Alex will be performing with Allegro, an ensemble that incorporates movement with music.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

Baumj@rbhs208.org McOlgank@rbhs208.org

Portrait Artist Set to Visit RB

American portrait artist, Gwenn Seemel, will be visiting RBHS via online video starting October 25th. Ms. Seemel will meet with the Drawing/Painting III and AP Studio Art students on several occasions to share her experiences and innovative style. Over a three week period, each student will work with Ms. Seemel to create a portrait of their own. Be sure to check back for updates and images of the student work.

Visit Gwenn Seemel's website at http://gwennseemel.com/

Fall Orchestra Concert

View the video below to hear the RBHS Orchestra perform Hoedown.  Congratulations to all musicians on a great performance!

Fall Choir Concert

View the video below to see the RBHS Chamber Choir perform a traditional American hymn, Down to the River to Pray.  Look for the full concert from RBTV coming soon.  Congratulations to all choir members on a great show!

The RBHS Choirs have been accepted to sing at Disney World!  They will perform on Sunday, February 20 and attend a Disney Workshop on Saturday, February 19.

Parents, please consider volunteering your time to help with our fundraisers.  The Worlds Finest Chocolate Candy sale will begin later this week and we need a few parents to help with it.  We are also considering a Poinsettia sale.  We can really use any and all help you can offer.

Tomorrow, October 5, students from S.E. Gross, Hauser and Komarek Schools will visit RB and work together with our choirs.  We always look forward to having the Junior Highs visit and make music with us.  The RBHS Choirs will present the first concert of the season at 7:00 p.m.  We hope you can be in attendance!

Weekly Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Music Community,


The orchestra is busy preparing for their festival coming up this week on Thursday. The theme for the festival highlights American composers and their music. Students will miss third, fourth, and fifth hour classes to rehearse with the Hauser Jr. High Orchestra, watch a presentation by a professional bass teacher, and eat lunch. The day is always a lot of fun. To cap off the festival, there will be a concert that evening at 7:00 PM in the auditorium, all are encouraged to come!

Jazz Ensemble students were presented with a unique opportunity last Friday to work with John Dorhauer, a Chicago area composer and arranger. Mr. Dorhauer donated one of his original pieces to RB at the beginning of the year and came to RB to work with the Jazz Ensemble on his tune. We look forward to performing it on October 19th at the Hauser Jazz Festival at 7:00 PM.

The schedule for auditions for IMEA has been posted outside the band office. Permission slips will be distributed tomorrow during all ensemble rehearsals. Please sign and return by Friday so that we can order our bus.

October 15th and October 22nd are the last home games of the season. On the 15h we will be inviting all 8th grade band students to join the RB marching Band on the field for pregame and in the stands during the game. They will also be treated to a pizza party prior to the game at 5:00 PM in the Choir room. If you know an 8th grader, please encourage him or her to come out to this fun filled evening.

On October 22nd, the parents of seniors in band will be honored prior to the game. If you are the parent of a senior please keep that evening open and be on the lookout for more details to come.

Congratulations to Ben Mitchell who completed his Eagle Scout Project. Ben provided landscaping for the Scottish Home. He will be achieving the rank of Eagle very soon.

As always, please keep us informed of your accomplishments so we may share them with the community.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

Baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Vocal Music Department News

Today our students received a packet of information with details about the upcoming Disney World Trip. The dates are Friday, Feb. 18- Monday, Feb. 21. Please look at the packets and attend the parent meeting on Thursday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. I will answer any and all questions about the trip. I hope your students willbe able to join us on the trip. It will be a wonderful musical experience for all!

Our students are busy preparing for their upcoming IMEA District 1 auditions. We continue to have rehearsals on Monday evenings at 6:30 for IMEA Choir music. Those auditioning for Vocal Jazz Choir can attend help sessions at 7:15 a.m. on Wednesday mornings or at 3:15 on Thursdays. I also have sign up sheets for one-on-one sessions for the next few weeks. Being at IMEA is so inspirational for the students who attend. I want everyone to have that experience!

There are several help sessions our students can attend outside our school. Tomorrow, Sept. 25, West Leyden HS will have sessions from 8 - 9 a.m. for girls and 9 - 10 a.m. for boys. They will work on Choir and Jazz music. If you want to attend, just go! It will be interesting to work with students from different schools!

Have a great weekend!
Mrs. Marelli

Ms. Suzanne Bartelson Displays Artwork at Chicago Gallery

Congratulations to Ms. Suzanne Bartelson, art teacher and professional artist, for the installation of her artwork at the Arcade Gallery in Chicago. Ms. Bartelson was awarded the Albert P. Weisman Grant, which allowed her to create her installation piece entitled 'pastmatters?' Her piece combines a 50-foot hallway with 5 audio channels on a three-minute loop. Ms. Bartelson explores how the past informs one's identity and her family's immigration to Chicago. The moments shared in this piece help the storyteller and listener gain perspective while fostering a sense of community through the universal themese of communication, family history, and surviving adversity.

Ms. Bartelson's work will be on display until October 14th. The Arcade Gallery is located at 618 S. Wabash, Chicago, Illinois.

Links to her work: http://www.pastmatters.net/ and www.blurb.com/books/1591555

Marching Band - Homecoming 2010

View the video below to see the Marching Band perform at the Homecoming football game. Congratulations to all members on a great show.

Instrumental Music Update

Parents sit back and enjoy a private concert from the marching band at last Thursday's Parent Night. Thank you to everyone who came!

Dear Instrumental Music Community,
What a great week we just had! Spirit week has come and gone, and the music department was marvelous! All the groups are off to a great start; take a look at our shutterfly photos from the last week in Jazz Ensemble and Orchestra!
Thank you to all the Families who came out to our first ever Parents night! It was a blast to see you all run through the show. I hope you enjoyed the evening as well. Be sure to take a look at the pictures on the shutterfly site!
Friday night was our Homecoming game. The marching band performed exceptionally well both in the stands and on the field. Several parents commented after the game that the band really contributes to the community atmosphere. Great job band!
Looking ahead, there will be a Music Sponsors meeting Tuesday evening in the choir room at 7:00 PM.
Orchestra festival will be on October 7th, the students are working hard on their parts and sounding great !
The Next home game will be Jr. High Night on October 15th. We look forward to working with all the 8th graders.
Congratulations to Dovas Lietuvninkas for being accepted to the Merit school of Music Wind Symphony.
Congratulations to Rafael Ruiz who just purchased a new Black Trumpet!
Our low brass teacher, Tom Kociela just had a life changing experience playing with the CSO on Sunday. The free concert was held at Millenium Park to celebrate the arrival of Riccardo Mutti as the new conductor of the orchestra. Tom played for a group estimated to be well over 30,000 people. Several students had the opportunity to attend and said they were amazed! Great job Tom!
Congratulations to Kelsey Dickenson, Alex Muntean, Anna McGonagil, Maggie McLaughlin, Molly Chaney, Kevin Dinh, Kyle Perfect, Scott Duda, Kelly Glavin, Jeremy Baiocchi, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Ben Mitchell, Adrien Witek, Paul Krause, Andrew Payton, and Brian Robertson who all received principal chairs for their respective sections!

Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org and Mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Weekly Instrumental Music Update

RB Bulldog Marching Band Students Play the Fight Song for the reviweing stand and ABC 7's Janet Davis at Saturday's Von Steuben Day Parade.

Hello All,

Last Saturday the band participated in the Von Steuben Day Parade and German Festival. We had favorable weather despite concerns earlier in the day over rain. The students marched under cloud cover, and then changed into their street clothes and enjoyed the sun filled German Day Festival. The Bulldog Marching Band marched for thousands of appreciative fans shouting out in glee, “Go RB!” At the end of the parade the students played our Fight Song for the review booth, while Mayor Daley wasn't there, ABC's Janet Davis was! Many thanks to our chaperones, Paul and Debbie Cox, Dina Tardi, Carrie Sherman, Sue Sawyer, and Liz Cudecki, we couldn’t have done it without you! Check out the pictures on the shutterfly site!

Auditions are wrapping up for both band and orchestra. Looking ahead, the orchestra will perform its first concert on October 7th at 7:00 PM. The concert will be held in conjunction with the feeder school Orchestra Festival being held that day. We look forward to seeing you there!
On Thursday we will be holding a Parent Night open rehearsal. Students should come at 6:00 PM, parent should then join us on the field at 7:00 PM. Parent who come will be guided through the show by their students, and then be treated to a private performance of our show.

Friday is the big homecoming performance for band. The band will usher the entire student body to the football field for the pep assembly. That Night all band members should arrive to school at 5:30 PM to prepare for the performance that night. Come out, cheer with us, and cheer us on as we perform our Motown themed half-time show.

Congratulations to Neil Donegan who hosted a recital at his house last Friday night. Neil performed several works from the Suzuki method as a culminating event for the summer. Great job!

Please keep us up to date with all of your musical accomplishments!

Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Weekly Instrumental Update

RB Graduate Sam Lauritsen at the Chicago Jazz Festival performing his own original composition

Dear Instrumental Music Community,

We’re off to a great start! We had our first Home Game performance that looked and sounded great, the orchestra is working hard for their first concert (October 7th), and the jazz groups are swinging away on their music! It was also a pleasure to meet all of you last night!

Both the Orchestra and the Symphonic Band are currently holding auditions for chair placement.

As we look ahead, this weekend is the Von Steuben Day Parade! Students should arrive to the band room at 11:30 AM to change into their uniforms and load the busses. Come out and cheer us on as we march to Lincoln Square, and then join us for the festivities of the German Day Festival.

The first Tri-M Meeting will be held next Tuesday at 7:15 AM in the band room. Come “Try M” and see what this club is all about!

We would like to invite all parents and guardians to next week’s (September 16th) marching band practice for Parents Night. Come experience what your students experience while on the field! Parents who are interested should arrive to the field at 7:00 PM. Students need to arrive by 6:00 PM.

Many students are busy preparing their IMEA Etudes and Scales for auditions on October 12th. It’s not too late to get the music and have it prepared for the auditions, if you are interested please see Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan as soon as possible! This year the auditions will be held at Hinsdale Central High School.
Many of the private lesson teachers have begun teaching for the year! We have a great private studio program featuring some of Chicago’s most talented musicians. All of them are great teachers and can help your student realize his or her potential in music. If interested, please contact us!

Congratulations to former student Sam Lauritsen (2007) who had the opportunity to play at this year’s Chicago Jazz Festival. Sam played with the Roosevelt University Jazz Combo, and even played some of his own original tunes!

Also Congratulations to Drew Kohler, Tre` Edwards, and Chris Buh who were nominated by their peers to Homecoming Court.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Weekly Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Music Community,
It’s great to be back!
Last week the marching band had a terrific camp. They learned the entire half time show and pre-game in three days! On the fourth day, the students cleaned up the formations and worked with the Puppets who will be joining us for the third tune of the show. Many thanks to the parents who helped us to celebrate our accomplishments with a pizza party, and to the music sponsors for providing the pizza. Be sure to check out our shutterfly site for pictures from camp!
Thursday night will be the first marching band practice. Practice will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
On Friday all Marching Band students should wear their polo’s to school for the pep rally that day. Students will be excused from 7th hour to prepare for the assembly.
Friday is also the first home game. All band students should report to the band room at 5:30 PM to change into their uniforms and rehears the show.
The permission slip for the Von Steuben Day parade and festival went home yesterday. Please sign and return the form as soon as possible. The Parade will be on September 11th, and always promises to be fun. Last year the band and German club even got to march before Mayor Daley!
Congratulations to Joe Aieta and Kristen Tomecek who both attended Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp this summer, Sarah Otmanski and Kevin Dinh who attended the Illinois Summer youth Music Camp, Lucia Mancini who toured Europe with the Blue Lake International Choir, and Molly Chaney who toured Europe with the Blue Lake International Orchestra. All Students had a great opportunity to learn and practice music! Please feel free to ask us, or these students for more information about summer camps!
Musically yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Instrumental Update

Hello all,

We're back and off to a great start at band camp! With two days behind us we have thirty sets learned and two songs down. Ahead of us we have one more half time tune, Pre-game, and lots of fun! Check out more pictures on the picture website. Congratulations to all the students who are making this year's band camp a huge success!

Reminder: Thursday is picture day! Students should wear their polo's and bring their instruments. Seniors will have a picture taken at 9:25 AM. Everyone (including seniors) will have their picture taken at 11:10 AM. Everyone should show up 15 minutes ahead of time.


We are also in need of Uniform helpers. We need to measure all the students and have them fitted into uniforms by the first game on August 27th. Please contact us if you are available to help!

Congratulations to Alex Spirios who recently bought a new bass clarinet! Please keep us up to date about all your achievements.

Musically Yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Instrumental Update

Hello,

The schedule for fall sports pictures has been posted. All pictures will be taken on Thursday August 19th. Students should wear their polo's and bring thier instruments. Seniors will have a picture taken at 9:25 AM. Everyone (including seniors) will have their picture taken at 11:10 AM. Everyone should show up 15 minutes ahead of time.

We are in need of help for Band Camp. We need parents to help hydrate the students during camp. If you are free from 2:00 - 8:00 and would like to help, please contact us!

We are also in need of Uniform helpers. We need to measure all the students and have them fitted into uniforms by the First game on August 27th. Please contact us if you are available to help!

Musically Yours,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Instrumental Update

Hello all!

We hope your summers are going well and you are enjoying your time off. Both Mr. McOlgan and Mr. Baum are eager to see you soon and get back to teaching music. Congratulations to all of you participating in the area's many fantastic music camps!

We wanted to take this time to remind you that Marching Band Camp will be held August 16th - August 20th from 2 PM until 8 PM. since we will be going later in the evening, please bring dinner. Also remember to bring and drink plenty of water.

Also, Symphonic Band members should be preparing their audition pieces. More information on scheduling auditions will be given at Band Camp.

see you all soon!

Sincerely,
Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org McOlgank@rbhs208.org

Come and see the new mural at RB!

On Thursday (July 15th)from 12:30 - 3:30pm there will be a small reception for the new mural being displayed in the hallways of RB. Stop by for food, drinks, and to talk to some of the student artists involved in creating this new mural. The mural is incomplete, but the portion the students worked on will be revealed. Alumni students of RB Christy Kral and Natalie Shugailo will be completing the mural, which is scheduled to be finished by July 24th. Everyone is welcome! Please stop by and support the work that these students have accomplished in such a short time.

Mural Workshop Gallery

Please click on the image to view photos of the new mural being created during the RBHS Summer Mural Workshop

Summer Mural Workshop

For two weeks RBHS students are working with RBHS alumni to complete a new mural for the walls of the high school. Along with the alumni, students have been using art to leave their mark in the hallways of RB, while learning about the different techniques involved in painting a mural.The mural is located in the hallway near the music department and is facing the outdoor courtyard. Please check in to see the progress being made!

Ceramics & Metalworking Workshop Gallery

Click photo to view studio production and art work from Summer 2010 RBHS workshop artists.

Summer Ceramics Workshop!

Twenty area junior high and high schools are attending the RBHS Ceramics Workshop this week and next creating and glazing pottery and sculpture, learning new techniques, and experimenting with metalworking processes. Stay tuned to view photos of their finished work next week...

Weekly Instrumental Update

Members of the RB Marching Band, Orchestra, and Jazz ensembles pose outside the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on their recent trip to Cleveland. Check out more pictures on our Shutterfly Page.

Dear Instrumental Community,

Wow! What a great trip to Cleveland! Students left for Cleveland on Friday after school. Saturday morning started out with a trip to see the house where "A Christmas Story" was filmed. students then were treated to a lunch and Cruise on Lake Erie and the river. after the cruise students toured the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We then had dinner at Fat Fish Blue and the Jazz combo played for the dinner crowd. Then Saturday night we attended the Cleveland Symphony's presentation of Bruckner's 8th Symphony. On Sunday we traveled to Cedar Point where the marching band performed and then had the rest of the day to enjoy the park. Thank you to all the chaperons who helped supervise on the trip, Lena, our tour director, and our bus driver Jon for getting us everywhere safely.

Students interested in auditioning for IMEA next year should see Mr. McOlgan or Mr. Baum about acquiring their audition music and scale sheets.

All audition music for next years chair auditions have been distributed to all students in Symphonic Band next year.

All concert uniforms need to be returned by Friday so that we can send them into the cleaners. Many students have yet to return their uniforms, so please check at home for our tuxes or skirts.

Our entire calendar for next year has been posted on the Fine Arts Google Calendar. Please visit this site to stay current with all of our performances and practices.

The band call time for the graduation ceremony is 6:00 PM. All students in band are required to attend. Students should wear white dress shirts and black dress pants.

Calling all community musicians! We need you to join us for the July 3rd Parades. Practices for the parades are every Monday night starting June 16th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. all are welcome, so invite your friends.

Congratulations to Cassidy Fritsch, Dovas Lietuvninkas, Sarah Otmanski, and Molly Chaney who were all excepted into the Chicago Youth Symphony Concert Orchestra. This is a tremendous opportunity for these fine young musicians!

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

baumj@rbhs208.org Mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Feeder School Dance Festival

Fourty-five students from Hauser Junior High came to RBHS for its first feeder school dance festival. The students took a hip hop dance class with Ms. Haines, learned choreography from senior Repertory Dance Ensemble dancers and performed for one another. The day was a huge success. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who participated.

Students Critique Art Show

In the last few days of the RBHS Spring Art Show, Fine Art Survey students in the Visual Art rotation observe artwork and compose written critiques about a piece of their choice. The show will be on exhibit through the end of the day this Thursday, May 27th, for public viewing. Congratulations to all exhibiting artists and award recipients on another successful show!

Weekly Instrumental Music Update

Members of the RBHS Chamber Orchestra performed Vivaldi's Four Seasons on May 18th.

Hello Music Community

Congratulations to the entire music department for performing beautifully at last week's Apollo Awards Concert. Also congratulations to all the students who won major awards and to our new Apollo Award recipient Stephanie Duve!

Also congratulations to the Chamber Orchestra who performed Vivaldi's Four Seasons last Tuesday night at Ascension Lutheran Church in Riverside. This was the first recital of its kind given by the Chamber Orchestra. All the soloists and orchestra sounded sublime!

Looking forward, tomorrow is ensemble picture day, students are reminded to bring the proper attire for their pictures. All Bands:polo and a pair of khakis, Orchestra: black dress bottoms, white dress tops, dress shoes, Jazz Band: should be dressed nicely, Jazz Ensemble: Blacks.

On Friday members of the instrumental music department will be traveling to Cleveland for the bi-annual music trip. While there we will tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, hear the Cleveland Symphony Orchestra, and travel to Cedar Point Amusement Park. This promises to be a very fun and exciting weekend!

As always, please keep us up to date with all of your musical accomplishments.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan

baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

RB Bulldog's Give Back

Follow the link below and read an article from the Suburban Life covering the collaborative project between the RBHS Reading, Writing, Art & Audio Editing classes. The students worked together to create illustrated children's book that will be published and then donated to local hospitals. If you are interested in purchasing a book please contact Jon Grice at gricej@rbhs208.org .

http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/riverside/news/education/x1560868845/Students-creativity-gives-back-to-children

RBHS Spring Art Show

The annual Spring Art Show will be opening in the RBHS Art Pit Tuesday May 25th, 6:00 - 8:00pm.

The show will remain on display through Friday May 28th, exhibiting and awarding work by visual art students in the categories of Functional Ceramics, Sculpture, Drawing, Painting, Computer Art, Digital and Traditional Photography, Photography Series, Animation, and Portfolio.

RB Hosts State Dance Festival

On Saturday, May 8, 2010 RB hosted the Illinois H.S. Dance Festival. Over 500 guests visited RB to take dance classes, teach master classes, attend dance performances, eat in the lunchrooms and participate in teacher roundtable discussions. The day was a HUGE SUCCESS.

RB’s dancers did a great job playing the role of hostess. They answered questions and escorted guests around the building. It was obvious the students were proud of their new school and happy to be sharing it with other dancers.

Each student attended four technique classes (ranging from modern, ballet, tap, Latin ballroom, improve, partnering, jazz, hip hop, yoga, stretch or Fosse) and attended two live dance concerts.

The Illinois H.S. Dance Festival committee was delighted with RBHS and it’s facilities. A special thank you to Building and Grounds, Mary Todhunter, April Engelhart, Denise Delgado, Bill Frey, James Baum, Debra McClaughlin, Jessica Svacier, Madelyn Doyle, Pat Collazo, Laima Aleksa, Claudia Alvarez and Janelle Divittorio for helping make the festival a success.

Next year’s festival will be held at Oak Park River Forest High School.

Orchesis PRESENTS “SYNERGY”

Congratulations to the cast and crew of this year’s Orchesis Dance Concert, Synergy! Synergy was performed in the main auditorium on Friday, April 30th and Saturday May 1st.
The concert included twenty dances choreographed by both students and professional guest choreographers. The evening’s highlight’s included a senior dance choreographed by the 7 graduating seniors ( which will be performed again at Senior Awards Night on Wednesday, May 19th), a grand finale to Lady Gaga’s Bad Romance and Natalie Godlewski’s award winning dance, Cuckoo.
Seventy-seven students participated in this year’s Orchesis show.
The dancers would like to thank everyone who came out to support their show. The genuine excitement and energy in the audience made it extremely exciting for the performers to DANCE! Thank you again for being such a great audience! We can’t wait until next year!

Art for Africa - Student Art Show & Benefit

We are proud to announce "Art for Africa" a student art show and benefit held this Saturday, May 15 at Lens-Gallery 3739 Grand Blvd in Brookfield, Il. This is a student initiated and run show that will exhibit students' artworks ranging in drawings, paintings, photography, fashion design, mixed media, illustrations, ceramics, and digital images. There is a $10 suggested donation and a silent auction will take place throughout the evening. Light snacks and punch will be provided and all proceeds benefit Orphan Aid Africa. We hope you can are able to attend.

RB students offer ideas on Arcade, murals

On April 26, 2010 the Suburban Life Newspaper covered a story which RB Art students and staff were interviewed to offer suggestions to help preserve the Arcade Mural. Read the article by selecting the link above. Do you have any suggestions or ideas? Please send them our way at gricej@rbhs208.org .

Weekly Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Community,

As the weather is warming up we are gearing up towards summer. Be sure to sign up for summer camp! The Freshmen and New Band Member Orientation will be held Monday through Friday June 14th – July 2nd from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. We look forward to meeting all our new students.

Also, the Independence Day Marching Band will meet every Monday evening from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM starting June 14th. Any instrumentalist older than 6th grade may participate in the thrilling and fun parades on July 3rd, so please invite all of your instrumentalist friends.

Last week there was an information meeting for this year’s trip to Cleveland over Memorial Day Weekend. If you were unable to attend, please email us and we will fill you in on what you missed. This will be a very exciting trip!

Good luck to our choir friends as they perform their Spring Concert this Thursday night at 7:00 PM in the auditorium.

Congratulations to Kevin Dinh who took second place in a flute concerto competition last weekend. Great Job!

A special thank you to everyone who participated in the Noodles for Band Uniforms drive last Thursday, and to Laura Passaro who set up the event. We were able to raise over $400 for our new uniforms. Any other suggestions for fundraising would be appreciated.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

Weekly Instrumental Update

Dear Instrumental Music Community,

Congratulations to all of the music ensembles for their recent successes in concerts.

The jazz groups performed at the fourth annual Jazzapolluza, on April 7th in the Jazz (Alumni) Lounge. Many thanks to all who were in attendance for making this event a success once again by sharing your food and great enthusiasm for jazz education.

The very next week on April 15th, the classical ensembles held their Spring Concert. The program that night featured lighter selections as well as some standard repertoire for band and orchestra. All the bands and the orchestra performed beautifully as the seniors were honored in their last concert at RB. This concert is sure to be remembered for years to come.

Last week, on April 21st the jazz ensemble was once again invited to open up for the world renowned Rob Parton Jazz Band at Fitzgerald’s in Berwyn IL. The Jazz Ensemble played for a standing room only crowd; many thanks to all in attendance for your loud cheers and encouragement!

Friday, the Marching Band performed at this year’s second spirit assembly. The band adds so much to these assemblies, thank you so much for your contributions to our school spirit!
On Sunday April 25th the Jazz Band was invited to open up for the Shout Section Big Band, the band of which Mr. Baum is a member. They too had a sold out crowd cheering them on as they played their high energy set! Thank you to all who came out in support!

Looking forward, Thursday night the Noodles and Company in LaGrange will be hosting a fundraiser for our band to purchase new marching band uniforms. Please bring the whole family out, 25% of the proceeds will be donated to the marching band! thank to Laura Passero for all of her efforts in setting this up!

Also on Thursday night, after everyone has gotten their noodles, those who are attending the bi-annual instrumental music trip will be having a meeting in the band room at 7:30 PM to discuss details of the trip to Cleveland. Please be sure to attend so that all of your questions can be answered.

Any senior interested in auditioning for the opportunity to perform at Senior Awards Night should prepare their selection for May 11th at 3:15 in the band room.

Chris Halline, Alex Krug, and Lee Tang were all featured in recitals this past weekend. Chris and Alex performed violin solos at the First Congregational Church of Western Springs for as part of their violin school’s senior recital. Lee played a Chopin Nocturne for his private lessons studio; he was also generous enough to share his music with the cadet band on Monday, thank you! Great job to all three!

Congratulations to Molly Chaney who was awarded first chair bass in the Blue Lake international Orchestra. This orchestra will provide Molly with the opportunity to tour through Europe for three weeks this summer!

As always, please keep us informed of all your musical achievements so that we may celebrate as a community.

Sincerely,

Mr. Baum and Mr. McOlgan
baumj@rbhs208.org mcolgank@rbhs208.org

RBHS Choirs perform

Chamber Choir and Madrigals Visit Feeder Schools

The two advanced choirs of RBHS had a great day of touring and performing on Friday, April 23. They visited Komarek School and S.E. Gross Middle School. They performed concerts at both schools and were very well received. The junior high students were especially thrilled with the performance of "Don't Stop Believing" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water". The RB students were especially thrilled with the bus ride and their super deluxe annual luncheon at "Old Country Buffet"!

Madrigals Vocal Jazz Concert

The RBHS Madrigals a.k.a. "Vocal Jazz Ensemble" performed a concert of jazz standards on Tuesday, April 20. In addition to their usual ensemble work, many of the students performed solos and small ensembles of their own. The students learned wonderful songs like "I've Got the World on A String", "Cry Me A River", and "Agua de Beber". The Alumni Lounge was filled with parents, students and friends who enjoyed the concert as well as the wonderful refreshments!

Visitors from Minnesota!

The Concert Choir of Bertha-Hewitt High School visited RB on April 8. They were on a choir trip to Chicago and we made arrangements to have a "choir exchange" during their visit. We enjoyed hearing their repertoire and they enjoyed hearing the Madrigals perform.

Band Spring Concert - 3/24/10

Click here to view these pictures larger

Attention! Parents of Choir Students!

Have you ever thought it might be fun to sing with the choir? Join us and be a part of the RBHS Choir for our Spring Concert! You will have the opportunity to sing with your student. We will have 5 rehearsals beginning Tuesday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Choir room. The piece is "Bridge Over Troubled Water", arranged by Kirby Shaw. Please RSVP by email marellid@rbhs208.org or phone (708) 442-9464. Hope to see you as a member of the choir!

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.

Dance Fieldtrip to Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago

On Friday, March 12th twenty-five students attended a fieldtrip which involved a VERY FULL DAY OF DANCE. The morning started with a behind the scenes look at running a dance company. Dancers toured Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and watched a professional level ballet class. Dancers were invited to sit in on a rehearsal with the company! Mr. Terence Marling allowed the dancers to watch him in action as he prepared the final touches for his upcoming premier of At'em. After lunch, the students traveled to Evanston to partake in a master dance class at Gus Giordano Dance Center. After the 1.5 hour master jazz class the dancers visited the famous Russian Pointe Bouitque on Michigan Avenue AND...if that wasn't enough the dancers attended a star struck performance of the Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago.

It was another GREAT DANCING DAY for RBHS dance students!

Guest Dance Teacher -Margi Cole

4th Hour Repertory Dance Ensemble students welcomed Margi Cole, Artistic Director and founder of the Dance COLEctive, to class on Thursday, March 4th. Margi taught an across the floor combination focusing on the use of ones body to lift and partner another person. The dancers are anxious to get started on their partnering composition.

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

Weekly Instrumental Music Update

Dear Instrumental Music Community,

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

New Mural Documentary by FAUST. ASSOCIATES IN DESIGNED COMMUNICATIONS

Arcade Building Mural Project, Riverside, Illinois from Faust Associates on Vimeo.

View "Guys and Dolls" Trailer!

Guys and Doll from RBHS Clarion on Vimeo.

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!

Weekly Instrumental Update

Hello All,

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!

"Guys and Dolls" tickets are on sale now in the business office! Seating is reserved, so call or stop by now! The number is : 708-442-7500. Adult tickets are $8.00 and student or senior tickets are $5.00. Activity passes are also accepted. The performance will take place in RBHS's Little Theatre. The show is packed with laughs, singing, and dancing, and is sure to entertain!

Show Dates and Times:
March 11, 12, & 13: 7:30 p.m.
March 14: 2:00 p.m.