ALAMOSA — At the combined concert of the ASU Wind Symphony, Centauri 6th Grade Band, Centauri Junior and High School Band, and the SLV Community Band, the diverse range of musicians, spanning from elementary school to age 60-plus, captivated the audience. 

The concert began with the Centauri Jr. and Sr. High Bands taking the stage with the ASU Wind Symphony for a performance of Jared Spears's "Praises." 

The sixth-graders delivered a powerful rendition of "Atomic Clock" by Chris M. Bernotas. The composer's intention was to challenge young musicians to maintain a steady pulse, sustain energy and excitement, and explore interesting melodic and harmonic releases, all while using only six notes.  

The concert finale was “(not) Alone” by Randall D. Standridge, part of a five-piece work by the composer of The Unbroken Project. In 2021, Standridge created the work for the Wind Ensemble, which addressed mental illness.  

The composer personally lives with anxiety and depression and uses his music to destigmatize the discussion of mental health. 

"I live with depression. I am not afraid to say this. However, too many suffer in silence, shame, and fear. We must tear down these walls and normalize discussions about mental health issues," says Standridge. 

According to the concert notes, "‘(not) Alone’ will take you on an emotional journey of one who struggles with the mood and behavior changes that come with mental health disorders. Notice the following as you listen: 

“Beauty and dissonance. A solo flute introduces a brave soul with a "bittersweet melody that is lonely and vulnerable. Three descending notes signal the onset of a mental health crisis. The individual is aware that something is wrong but is trying to bravely persist. The music climaxes to a thunderous moment before dying away to a cloud of confusion. The work ends with a soloist, but more confidant and with others there for support." 

The combined talents of the Centauri High School Band, ASU Wind Symphony and the SLV Community Band in performing “(not) alone,” was an acoustic tour de force and a perfect end to an evening of great music.  

Music at Adams State continues with Alasdair Fraser on fiddle and Natalie Hass at 7 p.m. on Thursday in Leon Memorial Hall. Tickets are available for purchase at alamosaonline.org. On March 29, ASU Cabaret, “A Night of Song and Stories,” promises to be a memorable evening at the Friar's Fork and Sanctuary, located at 607 Fourth St., Alamosa. 

On Thursday, April 10, Mark Dudrow, on cello, and Martha Shepp on piano will be in Leon Memorial Hall at 7 p.m. Admission is $10-adults, $1 for students and seniors.