Small Town Times March Newsletter | Page 6

MNAC Band Clinic at Litchfield By: Mr. Hiebner This year’s MNAC Band Clinic host was Litchfield on Monday February 4 th . Representing schools were Anselmo-Merna, Ansley, Arnold, Brady, Callaway, Litchfield, and Twin Loup. Over 110 students were in the concert band directed by clinician Dr. Daniel Laing (Grand Island Senior High), and 15 were in the percussion ensemble. The band selections ranged from a march, multicultural, swing/jazz, and popular music. The percussion ensemble pieces included a four part percussion, and body percussion music. Dr. Daniel Laing is serving his second year as Director of Bands at Grand Island Senior High School. Prior to his GISH position. Laing was the Associate Professor of Music, Director of Bands at Has- tings College. During his tenure at Hastings College, Dr. Laing has been an advocate of new music. The Hasting College Band has helped to commission works from composers Steven Bryant, James Mob- berley, and David MacDonald. Students representing Litchfield included Chloe El- lison, Faith Heapy, Caden Holm, Christopher Paitz, and Sydnee Sweley. Those in the percussion ensem- ble included Calvin Finley, Nathan Wardyn, and John Zimmer. SPREADING KINDNESS On Wednesday, February 13th, Mrs. Kratzer’s kindergarten class went for a walk throughout Litchfield to spread kindness to citizens and businesses in town. Each student made 2 love bug magnets to give out with a valentine treat. The students really enjoyed their adventure and look forward to spreading more kindness in the spring