November 28, 2007

Spectrum, the Hood River Valley High School Music Department’s rock ensemble, revisits the era of progressive rock in two concerts, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1.

Featuring music by Styx, Kansas, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, and many more, the concerts also include more recent progressive rock songs by groups such as Snow Patrol and Dream Theater.

Music Director Mark Steighner says that as always, Spectrum’s music should appeal to a wide range of audiences.

“Of course, adults of a certain age heard these classics when they were new; today’s students still listen to this timeless pop music.”

Spectrum has nearly 30 members, divided into two ensembles. The groups practice simultaneously, in two different rooms, he said, and “by and large they craft their own arrangements of the music, without too much input from me.

“For this concert, I picked most all of the songs, based on what instrumentation we had,” he said. “We have so many excellent keyboard players right now, progressive rock was a great fit.”

Partnering with Spectrum as usual will be Ken Jacobs, who brings his audio expertise and top-quality sound to the Bowe.

“Spectrum is a tough act to do sound for,” Steighner said. “We have six or seven singers, multiple guitars, keyboards, percussion, and effects. Ken always makes the kids sound great and very professional.”

The concerts begin at 7 p.m. in the Bowe Theatre. Admission is $3 for everyone.

“This is our 13th or 14th concert since the group was formed five years ago,” Steighner said, “but we’ve rarely had a big audience. I’d love to see the place really full for the kids.”