What could be better than fine instrumental music and Chico pride? Absolutely nothing.

Chico’s Department of Music and Theatre held the Daniel Hiestand Memorial Concert, which featured the Chico State Wind Ensemble opening the first half of the show and the Alumni band closing out the show. The concert was held at the Laxson Auditorium.

This concert is held annually in support of the Hiestand Music Education Scholarship and featured this year’s 2018 Marine Band’s March Mania Contest winner. Also being featured was Leonard Bernstein’s “Fanfare” and his “Danzon” in celebration of his 100th birthday.

The school dedicated the scholarship after the long-time director of the Chico State Band Daniel Hiestand passed away. This scholarship was established by his wife, Marilyn H. Hiestand, his family, colleagues and former students.

This year’s recipient of the scholarship was Nathen Forero, a Redding native. Forero transferred from Shasta College to Chico state to pursue a major in Music Education and has been volunteering at Manzanita Elementary School as a music teacher to gain experience.

Forero is currently in the credential program at Chico State.

“I’m excited to complete my credentials and begin my career as a music teacher!” Forero said.

Many of the attendees were extremely impressed with the show. The “Fanfare for the Inauguration of John F. Kennedy,” by Leonard Bernstein, was a favorite. This number was performed by the Wind Ensemble.

“I thought the first piece was a great way to start off the show and I enjoyed (it) quite a bit,” attendee Helen Franco said.

The Alumni and Friends band was a sight to see as well. Many alumni were present to play musical melodies such as “God’s Century” by Rosano Galante, “Danzon” from the ballet, “Fancy-Free” by Leonard Bernstein and John Siberian and “Commando March” by Samual Barber.

The night ended with a big helping of Chico State pride as the alumni band played the school’s alma mater by Sibelius and its fight song by Fedrick Biglow. The music was complemented by one of the orchestra members running up and down the aisles while waving the school’s flag.

This part of the performance garnered lots of laughs and enjoyment from the audience members, with attendee Victor Lee laughing at the whole thing.

“That dude looked pretty ridiculous running like that. funny stuff,” said Lee.

The next event being held at the Laxson Auditorium will be Complexions Contemporary Ballet on Friday, Oct.19 at 7:30 p.m.

Alex Coba can be reached at [email protected] or @ThatOneGuyCoba on Twitter.