Great Bend students and families enjoyed the Sixth-Grade Instrument Display Night, held on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Great Bend Middle School Gym and Commons Area.

The event, which aimed to inspire sixth-grade students to explore their musical passions, saw an impressive participation rate. Sixty-four students signed up to join the band and 40 students opted to join the orchestra, marking a strong start to the school year’s music programs.

During the event, students had the opportunity to try out instruments and select the one they felt most passionate about. The evening was an important step in helping students begin their musical journeys. In addition to USD 428 band and orchestra instructors, numerous volunteers from the community, retired instructors, and other local instructors were on hand to provide guidance and support as students explored instruments. Several regional music stores were also available to families to rent or buy instruments that evening. A photo-op was also set up to encourage students and families to commemorate their excitement. 

“We were thrilled to see so many students eager to explore their musical talents,” said Aubrey Maneth, Orchestra director at Great Bend Public Schools. “Their enthusiasm was contagious, and we’re excited to see how they grow as musicians this year.”

For more information about the music programs at Great Bend Public Schools, contact the GBHS/GBMS music directors:

• Band: Grant Mathews, grant.mathews@usd428.net; Kimberli Simms, kimberli.simms@usd428.net

• Orchestra: Aubrey Maneth, aubrey.maneth@usd428.net; Erica Pinkston, erica.pinkston@usd428.net

Great Bend Public Schools is excited to support these young musicians as they begin their musical education and looks forward to the progress they will make throughout the year.

BY ANDREA BAUER

Great Bend USD 428