Young musicians flock to Arena

An ocean of music stands and young musicians covered the Spokane Arena floor Tuesday evening, but Akeyse Rice knew right where to look.

“I can see him down there,” the 7-year-old said, pointing to his big brother, Anthony Rice Jr.

“It’s a beautiful thing,” said the boys’ father, Anthony Rice Sr. “I’m very proud of him. I’m pretty sure all the parents are proud.”

Anthony Jr., a fifth-grade trombonist at Grant Elementary, joined more than 2,200 other fifth- and sixth-grade students from 35 Spokane elementary schools for the annual Band and Strings Spectacular Concert.

His brother and father were among thousands of supporters who showed up, some clutching cameras, binoculars or video cameras, to see the kids play songs ranging from an Israeli folk song to Old MacDonald’s Band.

Spokane Public Schools dedicated the concert to Mark Williams, a longtime band teacher who was slain in January.

The children spent months preparing in school music classes. For many, this is their first year playing an instrument and Tuesday was their first big concert.

“It’s like once in a lifetime,” said Franklin Elementary fifth-grader Cristell Zaldivar, flute case at her side.

Regal Elementary violinist Ashley Harris had at least three fans in the packed stands Monday.

Her mother, Karen Harris, little sister, Taylor Harris, and grandmother, Shirley Jones, were there “just to hear her play and hear how well she’s advanced,” Karen Harris said. “She plays pretty good for not practicing at home.”

Taylor, a fourth-grader at Regal, will get her shot next year. “I’m doing the violin, too,” she said.