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Portland
Adventist Academy has a rich and successful history of music, and students of
all levels are encouraged to experience its gift. They can participate in Concert
Band, Allegria Choir, the Portland Adventist String Orchestra, steel drum band
(PAAn Band), Jazz Band, guitar class, Performance & Production class, the
PAA Worship Band, and a variety of other small ensembles. All
year long students in Concert Band, Allegria, PAAn Band and Jazz Band prepare
diligently for the annual spring music tour when they travel to places like San
Francisco and Vancouver, British Columbia. While on tour, students perform at
churches and special events. They also have the opportunity to snow board at
Whistler, picnic at the Golden Gate Bridge or spot a Canadian black bear in the
wild. Nearly half the student body participates in music, emphasizing its value
and worth. Our
guitar students learn from one of Portland’s most notable players and
producers. Tim Ellis shares his talents and hands-on industry wisdom in
PAA’s Performance and Production classes. The students demonstrate their music
abilities in our full-fledged recording studio where they also learn how to
engineer sound as professionals. Our
newest addition to the music department is the Portland Adventist String
Orchestra, which provides a musical opportunity for serious and committed young
musicians. Under the direction of Cindy Petty, students gain valuable
experience and mentorship during their rehearsals and later take joy in the
thrill of performing with world known soloists. Linda
Neel, head of
our music department, has led her band and choir to over 20 State Championships—Concert
Band placing first nine of those times. She has inspired students to experience
music for a lifetime. Some of her alumni have gone on to achieve greatness—two as
respected professors of music, an accomplished opera singer with a doctorate in
music, a professional trumpet player and many others in Portland’s noted local music
scene. But Linda’s drive is never out-shadowed by her compassion and love for
her students. Her enthusiasm is what inspires them most. |
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