Treats and Tunes at the Price Center

Kevin Baxter | Staff Reports

SAN MARCOS – On October 31, at 5 p.m., the Price Center held a Halloween performance, Music of the Night, by the Aquarena Springs Symphonic Band with a guest performance by Dr. John C. Schmidt.

The performance comprised seven pieces, all fitting the theme of Halloween. ASSB founder and music director Michael L. Thielen would describe the band’s origin in between songs and held a costume contest for those who participated.

“Aquarena Springs Symphonic Band is comprised of volunteer musicians, with various backgrounds and experiences, and diverse cultures,” according to the program. “Ages of the musicians range from eighteen to eighty plus years.”

The program encourages high school students to participate via an adult sponsor with parents’ permission.

Dr. Schmidt performed piano with the band on the second to last song, Apparitions.

Dr. Schmidt is a Professor of Music and has been a member of the Texas State University music faculty since 1976. He teaches music theory, music history, and organ. He also serves as the organist for Covenant Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas.

Before Dr. Schmidt joined the band for the performance, Thielen spoke about his relationship with the professor and his honor to perform with him.

Thielen wrote his feelings in the program, “I am deeply honored and humble having my professor, colleague and most importantly, my friend, join ASSB on today’s performance.”

The night ended with a medley of songs from The Phantom of the Opera. Afterward, the Price Center gave out small bags of candy to those who attended the event and candy baskets to winners of the costume contests.

ASSB is a non-profit band running off donations from community members. According to the program, they do have “annual levels of giving” ranging from $100-$1000 each with their own reward. The rewards range from a listing on programs for the year to being a one-time guest conductor.

If you are interested in learning more about ASSB, their email is aquarenaspringssymphonicband@gmail.com. ASSB can also be found here on Facebook.