Following highly successful first concerts, band teacher Steve Schmitz said all four Park bands look to build off of early accolades.

According to Schmitz, Jazz Ensemble and Freshman Band performed Dec. 2, while the Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble performed Dec. 3.

Schmitz said he found the first concerts of the year to be successes across the board.

“I was incredibly proud of all four St. Louis Park Senior High bands,” Schmitz said. “There are always a few unexpected nerves or rough spots, but those were easily out shined by confidence, passion and musicality.”

According to junior band student and Jazz Ensemble member Vince Callahan, he felt successful at the concert.

“Everyone pulled through and (the concert) turned out really well,” Callahan said.

Schmitz said the high quality of Park’s band program showed throughout both concerts.

“A few music educators in the audience felt that the quality of all four bands has clearly elevated in the past few years,” Schmitz said.

Freshman band student Cecilia Brown said the concerts highlighted the strengths of Park’s bands.

“I think all the bands were really great and our band has improved much from the beginning of the year,” Brown said.

According to Schmitz, the well-received performances by all four bands foreshadows a bright future for the program.

“All bands are starting to work together as great teams and I am excited to see and hear them develop throughout this year and the next few years,” Schmitz said.