Just before the winter break, Harris Park students had a unique opportunity to hear from top level musicians as the wind quintet ShakduGAT played for them and answered questions about their instruments and passion for music.

 

Colleen McCracken (flute), Zachary Gnall (oboe), Lee Cyphers (horn), Stuart Young (bassoon), and John F. Griffin, Jr. (clarinet) are all current or recently graduated students from the University of Denver and friends with music teacher James Shemwell. He invited them to Harris Park to play a mix of holiday songs, art pieces and popular songs.

 

“The opportunity to give our kids a chance to see and hear instruments which they don't often get to experience, performed so brilliantly, was a great one,” said Shemwell. “I hope it served as a chance to bring some joy to staff and learners and to hopefully inspire WPS students to explore more of what the Creative Arts Pipeline could offer them in their future."

 

The group brought its unique take on chamber music to schools, senior centers and community spaces across the metro area during the holiday break. They also played for Food Bank of the Rockies volunteers and 9NEWS was there.

 

Take a listen to a part of their performance at Harris Park: