Waukon Music Department to host 16th annual Pops Concert February 28

The Waukon Music Department will be hosting the 16th annual Pops Concert Friday, February 28 at the Waukon Middle School gymnasium. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with concert performances to begin at 7 p.m.
The Pops Concert is an annual fundraising event sponsored by the Allamakee Music Boosters, and it features high energy musical numbers from the 1950s through today. Groups performing will include the high school and middle school choirs, high school and middle school jazz bands, drumline, middle school rock band, featured soloists, song and dance skits, and emcees. The local rock band Eeka Malla, consisting of five high schoolers, will be performing during the Pop’s Concert again this year. The Pops Concert continues to feature new musical talents each year and has become a must-see event for the Waukon community.

The musical event is directed by JoAnn Sherman, 5th grade and Waukon High School Band Director; Sarah Bieber, Waukon Middle and High School Vocal Director; and Tim Lund, Waukon Middle School Band Director. All three directors work hard to create a fun and lively concert that the students are excited to perform and the audience enjoys. This event shows off the highly talented students in the music programs at the middle and high school levels.

Tim Lund, Waukon Middle School Band Director, states, “I’m so proud of the commitment and hard work that these middle schoolers have shown in preparing for this concert. They sacrifice their time to go above and beyond what’s asked of them and I’m fortunate to be able to work with such great kids day in and day out.”

JoAnn Sherman said, “As the high school band teacher, I am beyond excited to showcase the talent and hard work of our students at this year’s Pops Concert. Our band and drumline have been rehearsing tirelessly, and I can’t wait for the community to hear the energy and passion they’ve put into their performances. The students have been incredibly dedicated, and it’s always a thrill to see them bring their own style and creativity to the music. This concert is a chance for them to shine, and I’m confident that the audience will be blown away by their talent and enthusiasm. It’s going to be an unforgettable night of music!”

Sarah Bieber states, “As the 6-12 Choir Teacher and Rock Band Director, I couldn’t be more proud of the incredible dedication and talent our students have brought to this year’s Pops Concert. From the very beginning, this performance has been a true celebration of student involvement. Our students have been fully engaged in every aspect of the concert - from selecting the music and choreographing routines to adding their own instrumental flair. This is a student-centered experience through and through, and the creativity, energy, and collaboration they’ve shown is truly inspiring. It’s been a joy to watch them come together to create something special, and I can’t wait for our community to experience the magic they’ve worked so hard to bring to life.”

The Pops Concert is open to the public for general admission seating in the bleachers and chairs located in the gym. No school activity passes or booster club passes will be accepted. Tables, which can seat up to ten people, can also be sponsored. Table sponsors can decorate their tables, provide snacks/desserts to their guests, and invite family and friends to join in on the memorable night. To reserve a table, contact Michele Huinker at 563-380-3467 to leave a message, or email at acsdmusicboosters@gmail.com.

The money raised from this event has been allocated in the past by the Allamakee Music Boosters to help purchase items such as new instruments, drumline equipment, risers, pianos, and various pieces of musical equipment for all grades, as well as provide scholarships for students to attend music camps. A Waukon Indian Keychain/Ornament Sale will be going on at the concert as well with two styles. In case of inclement weather Friday, February 28, the back-up date for the Pop’s Concert performance has been set for Saturday March 1 at 7 p.m.