Music makes moves

The generosity of area organizations and Tucumcari Public Schools has provided a musical gift for a group of elementary students who performance venues have included the State Capital Roundhouse.

"On behalf of the children, I would like to thank Altrusa, the McMullen Foundation and Tucumcari Public schools," said Andrew Kesten, TES music teacher.

The three entities each donated $5,300 for the purchase of a three marimbas, a percussion instrument much like a xylophone.

Kesten said the instruments, that were constructed by Peter Bush in Michigan, are based on those used in Africa by the residents of Zimbabwe. He said the instruments origins inspired the band's name, the TES Nyoka Marimba Band.

"There is no Zimbabwean word for Rattler, so we decided on their word for snake," Kesten said.

The band recently performed in the Rotunda at the State Capital building in Santa Fe, and have also performed at New Mexico Highlands University.

Kesten said the band's next concert will be April 27 at the Tucumcari Train Depot.

"The students would love for the public to come out and help them thank the Train Depot, City for supporting them through the years," Kesten said. "The depot has always provided a wonderful venue for the students."

Kesten said to thank Altrusa, the band will perform for their state convention in May that will be held in Tucumcari. He said recordings of all the performances will be submitted to the New Mexico Music Educators' Association.

"We are hoping to be selected as the home group to perform for the NMMEA's 75th convention," Kesten said.

Kesten said the TES ORFF Ensemble had the honor of performing during the 2016 convention. He said a group must wait three year's before they are eligible again for such an honor. If selected the students will perform at Popejoy Hall at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, Kesten added.

"The students, as always, have shown a lot of dedication learning to play these instruments," Kesten said. "With the help of Paul Gibson, assistant director, these students put on an amazing concert."