8th April 2011

Post with 31 notes

Rise 2011

    Percussion Scholastic World

    1st Place, 94.25
    Arcadia High School – Rise
    Arcadia, CA

    A program that breaks new ground is one that inspires countless others to follow in years to come. The last time something truly “game-changing” came to the table was back in 2006, when Mission Viejo practically revolutionized the Indoor scene with the implementation of singing via sampler. Some years later a new candidate has entered the pantheon of innovators, and that ensemble is Arcadia High School. Their program, “Rise,” is unlike anything that has been placed to the floor. Much like our color guard brethren, the drummers manage to make it seem as if the instruments are merely an extension of their body. The performers drop to one knee, only to jump back to their feet seconds later. Of course this sounds strenuous – especially to perform for nearly eight minutes. But there is no need for concern. These young performers play like professionals – delivering a merciless intensity that assaults the senses from the moment the show begins. Even more astounding is opposed to the competitors who utilize narrative to guide the audience along, Arcadia veers in the opposite direction. There is no storyline here – merely a show soaked in an electronic atmosphere that seems to be a combination of “Blade Runner,” “Mad Max” and everything else that represents a dystopian future of sorts. The various electronic pulses and unique pallet of sounds only add the sheer level of intrigue laced about. And if that isn’t enough, you’ll be further astounded during the ballad segment where the ensemble performs a series of open-ended rolls at impossible angles. The show incorporates old school ideologies with just laying it down and playing their music as if their life depended on it, but at the same time fusing it electronics to create an esoteric approach that is in a league of its own. And the ending will surely have people rising to their feet as the various sections literally march to the front of the floor amongst the front ensemble and play a series of machine-gun precision rhythms that will have you in complete disbelief. Dayton should brace itself – the sleeping giants have awakened and are rising towards one destination – the top of the World class elite. 

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    i can’t believe my sophomores...accomplishing this!! im sooo proud
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