NFCC Artist Series Brings Entertainment and Arts Education to Town

Presidio Brass performs at NFCC and Madison County Central School

Presidio Brass performs at NFCC Sept 29 2017MADISON, FL (Sept. 29, 2017) – The North Florida Community College Artist Series welcomed Presidio Brass as the opening performance of its 2017-2018 season on Sept. 29. In addition to a full-length evening performance at Van H. Priest Auditorium, NFCC also took the brass quintet to Madison County Central School for an educational outreach performance. Over 70 MCCS band students took part in the educational activity and according to MCCS Band Director Letitia Bell, the event had quite an impact on the students.

“Not only was the performance great and exciting, they shared personal stories that the students appreciated,” said Bell. “They also allowed time for students to ask questions, Artist Series takes Presidio Brass to MCCS Sept 29 2017which I think validated their time together. Many students left with a better appreciation of music and musicians themselves. Students saw how enjoyable music can be as both a performer and an audience member. One student in particular learned how much more enjoyable live performances are versus watching a YouTube video of a performance. I think the show motivated students to look beyond their current situations and look towards the future. It was a great inspiration!”

Presidio Brass also enjoyed their time at MCCS. "The Presidio Brass was honored to be able to share their love of music with the students of Madison County Central School,” said trombonist and vocalist Josh Bledsoe. “Presidio Brass was initially formed as a vehicle for music education, and we are proud to continue that tradition to this day. The students of MCCS were attentive, engaged, and full of energy! Our partnership with KHS America and their Academic Alliance allows us to take music education with us wherever we go!”

The evening performance, Sounds of the Cinema, was meant to conjure great memories of some of the most iconic films of the last 60 years. NFCC patrons enjoyed the fun and memorable performance with Facebook comments posted after the show echoing the many positive comments shared in person – “AWESOME Music!! Love the Brass!”; “Great Show!”; and “Ya’ll were SO much FUN!! Thanks so much!”.

Presidio Brass also enjoyed their time with NFCC Artist Series patrons. "Performing for an engaged and energetic audience is truly one of the most rewarding experiences a touring ensemble can have, and the patrons of the NFCC were a fantastic group of music fans!” said Bledsoe.

The show was the perfect start to the 2017-2018 NFCC Artist Series season which is helping celebrate NFCC’s upcoming 60th anniversary. Since NFCC began its first classes in 1958, the campus and community have long worked together to ensure there is a place for the arts and arts education to flourish.

Upcoming performances of the NFCC Artist Series include the Sarah Mac Band on Oct. 17; The Nutcracker on Dec. 8; a partnership with the NFCC Community Theatre to present Disney’s The Lion King JR on Jan. 26 and 27; Scot Bruce as Elvis in a Rockin’ Valentine’s Day Bash on Feb. 10; the Olate Dogs on March 1; and John McEuen and Friends in “Will the Circle Be Unbroken on April 20. For more information visit www.nfc.edu/artist-series or contact the NFCC College Advancement office at 850-973-1653.

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