Plains spring concert showcases budding talent and a new conductor

The bleachers of the Plains gymnasium were filled with proud parents and grandparents, eagerly anticipating the spring concert performance by the school’s budding musicians. This year marked a special first: the debut of high school senior Logan Steinebach as the high school band conductor.

“Logan really went above and beyond to learn the music and how to conduct,” said Plains High School Principal Heidi Fettinger.

The evening began with the junior high band, conducted by Luanna Revier, performing Colors of the Wind and Pirates. The 16-member band played with enthusiasm and energy.

Following the band, Revier also led the choir, accompanied by Jeanie Gentry on piano. The choir sang Two Latin Motets and All the Pretty Little Horses, delivering a moving performance.

A highlight of the concert was the drum ensemble, featuring seven talented percussionists. They performed two lively pieces, Buckets and Fresh Trash, using plastic buckets and trash cans provided by Studs Building of Plains. The school supplied the drumsticks.

A flute duet by Mackenzie Tulloch and Layla Harris showcased the students' refined musicality. Both musicians received superior ratings for their performances at the (MHSA)Montana High School State Association Music Festival held May 3 in Great Falls.

The concert concluded with the high school band, led by senior conductor Logan Steinebach. Eleven musicians performed Shackleford Banks, Black Forest Overture and How to Train Your Dragon. The band delivered strong performances, guided by Steinebach’s confident and expressive conducting.

Steinebach, a tuba player for the past eight years, took on conducting for the first time. 

“I was extremely nervous. But as soon as the band started playing, all my nerves faded away,” he said.

“I am blown away — he did such an amazing job,” said Fettinger.

After the concert, Steinebach’s mother, Carla, beamed with pride. 

“I’m so very proud of him,” she said.

Following graduation, Steinebach will be joining the U.S. Navy serving in the submarine force.

    Plains High School Percussion Ensemble performs Fresh Trash with musical instruments supplied by Studs. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
  

    The Plains High School Choir performs several songs during the Spring Concert. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)