The last Hastings Middle School Jazz concert under the direction of Kathy Warren concluded Thursday night with lots of applause and more than a few tears. The 23rd or 24th, no one is quite certain, annual Spring Jazz Night was awash in memories and attended by lots of former students out lining the bleachers for the 90 minute program. Three jazz ensembles, the spiral singers, two drum sets, keyboards, a grand piano and a full battery of musical gear filled the gymnasium decked out in red and black to match the unique jazz t shirts worn by every student musician bearing the smiling face of their director.
Kathy remarked that it was a little strange to see 100 images of herself staring out from behind the music stands, but she took it in stride, just as she has done for 33 years. That is, until it was time for the last number. She addressed the audience to thank the parents who supported their music students, the teachers, collegues and staff of Hastings Middle School and asked that the Jazz program be supported in the future, to continue the legacy of excellent instrumental opportunities that have always been a hallmark of Hastings Schools. She joked that there were many things that she would not miss, but softly concluded that the students are what she will miss most of all. And judging by the parting flowers, gifts and framed momentos the feeling is very mutual. Just one more spring band concert remains, for her 7th and 8th graders, which she will direct on the last day of May.
