Westfield HS Band Boosters

Famed Conductor Pays Special Visit To Local High School

Slatkin Tells Band It Is Pretty Good (View NBC4 News Video)

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. -- National Symphony Orchestra Music Director Leonard Slatkin, who has served as guest conductor in venues around the world, on Tuesday set his stage at a Fairfax County high school with an orchestra of teenagers.

Before he raised his baton, Slatkin began his visit to Westfield High School by listening to the Wind Symphony, a top band locally.

Slatkin began by giving the group an encouraging assessment.

"You sound wonderful. One thing struck me right away -- intonation is excellent. That's the hardest part," said Slatkin.

However, Slatkin also said that there were other parts that could be improved and made suggestions for how that could happen.

As he conducted, Slatkin also taught, giving advice on how to deal with the inevitable missed note.

Slatkin has quietly visited dozens of schools over the 11 years he's been in Washington. He said he is motivated by his desire to promote music education.

"The kids are the future," Slatkin said. "You come here, hear something vital and they are all going to be influence by it, and if I can do anything to encourage them to keep music in their lives, that's why I'm here," he said.

Slatkin's infectious enthusiasm hit home. Oboe player Victoria Smith said she is now is thinking even more strongly of pursuing music in college next year.

The group said Slatkin's praise for them holds special significance because about a year ago their beloved band director, Laura McBride, died from breast cancer.

The new director said it's been a wrenching year for the band, which has had to go through mourning then rebuilding.

"Today is a triumph for them that a world class conductor like Mr. Slatkin comes to this stage and tell them they are pretty good," said Stephen Panoff, Westfield H.S. Band Director.

Slatkin also reminded the group of why he thinks being in a band is so special.

"We get to do what no one lese can do. We come together -- different backgrounds, different instruments and how we're able to put it all together," he said.

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