International Steinway Artist Jim McDonough to perform at Waukon High School 20 years after serving as band director

International Steinway Artist Jim McDonough, who is a former Waukon High School band director, will be returning to perform 20 years later to the town where he started his teaching career. The solo piano concert, sponsored by the Allamakee Music Boosters, will be performed Sunday, October 9 at 2 p.m. in the Waukon High School Auditorium.
McDonough came to Waukon in the summer of 1996 as a first-year teacher at Waukon High School. Even though he only stayed in the district for one year, his band achieved a high level of performance. However, he also had aspirations beyond teaching.

McDonough's life over the next five years took a few twists and turns before he started a career as a solo pianist. For the past 15 years he has been recording CDs that are sold through trade shows and small town businesses, and performing seasonal concerts throughout the midwest and surrounding states.

“I had the honor to work with Jim when he was the High School Band Director here 20 years ago and am thrilled he has agreed to this concert,” shared JoAnn Sherman, current Waukon High School Band Director. "I knew when he was teaching here that he was a talented musician, but after having seen him perform at one of his concerts, I can say that he is amazing. His concerts have music for all generations. Everyone in attendance will be glad they came to this concert."

Tickets for McDonough’s concert in Waukon are on sale now at Farmers and Merchants Savings Bank, Kerndt Brothers Savings Bank and Waukon State Bank, as well as Hartig Drug, all in Waukon. Tickets will also be available at the door the evening of the event, if they are not all previously sold out.

Preferred seating for the concert will be offered. These tickets are limited to just 125 total tickets and will be located front and center stage. All other auditorium seats will also be available at a lower purchase price. Students in grades 7-12 will also have the opportunity to meet with McDonough in a special educational workshop earlier that same day.

“We are so excited to be able to bring this fantastic musical opportunity to the community,” stated Erin Berns of the Allamakee Music Boosters. “The Music Boosters have a goal each year to offer a professional musical event locally for the public in appreciation for all of the support we receive each year. We are thrilled to welcome such a talented performer back to Waukon on his 20th anniversary and hope we have a great crowd for the concert.”

For more information about the concert, contact Allamakee Music Booster board members Erin Berns, at 563-535-7509, or Shelly Lydon, at 563-568-8670, or e-mail waukonmusical@live.com.