Review: “Pershing’s Own” Brings Down the House at the Majestic
Pershing’s Own Army Band performed on Oct. 20 at Gettysburg College (Photo courtesy of the United States Army)
By Alex Pearson, Staff Writer
The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” put on a phenomenal show on Friday at the Majestic Theater.
After some members came early to conduct a clinic with the Gettysburg College Wind Symphony, a large audience of students, faculty, and community members nearly filled up the Majestic for the evening concert.
The event began with the “Commando March,” which was both riveting and patriotic. It was followed by “Xerxes,” which was said to be an angry piece, even for John Mackey. “Xerxes” was filled with awesome dynamic changes and gave the feel of storm clouds gathering. Finale from Mahler’s Symphony No. 4, “Sehr Behaglich,” was a gorgeous piece. In her final performance with Pershing’s Own, soloist MSG Leigh Ann Hinton, brought many audience members to tears with her beautiful voice.
The band took us down memory lane when they played “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.” Many of us had visions of Mickey’s nightmarish encounters with brooms in Fantasia as the band played more frantically. The dynamics were astounding, as was the teamwork. “A Century of Progress” was a very short and upbeat piece. It was very fun.
“Concertino de Camera” was a lovely piece featuring the Sunderman Conservatory’s very own clarinet professor SSG Aaron Scott as the soloist. The piece was melodic and emotional. It was followed by Eric Whitacre’s “October,” which was hailed as a celebration of all for which there is to be thankful.
The “Armed Forces Salute” was played wonderfully. It was very moving to watch audience members stand when his or her salute was played. The audience clapped to the beat and gave thunderous amounts of applause.
“Morning Star” was a magical piece played to honor the legendary wind band composer David Maslanka, who died earlier this year. The band had lovely dynamics and told a touching story.
Finally, “Stars and Stripes Forever” was played unexpectedly at the end. It was a really engaging piece and the band received a standing ovation. Pershing’s Own put on a wonderful show on Friday night; it was truly something to behold.
