ABOUT
THE
ROCK ENSEMBLE
The Miami
Beach Senior High School Rock Ensemble was established
in for the purpose of performing contemporary jazz and rock music. The students
involved learn both the technical and aesthetic aspects concerning the business
of music. They gain vast knowledge of traditional as well as modern technical
instruments, such as, synthesizers, the hybrid combinations of acoustic and
electrical instruments, and the sophisticated factors of sound reinforcement.
Additionally, the students in the Rock Ensemble, working with the MBSH High
Tide Recording Studio, now have the capability of composing music through Musical
Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) for public performances and copyright.
For sixteen years the Rock Ensemble has consistently achieved
"superior" ratings at the Florida Vocal Association Festivals, both at the district
and state levels. The students' accomplishments and knowledge of the various
aspects of the music business have recently been commended in appearances on
CNN and MTV.
This year the Rock Ensemble again participated in the Florida Vocal Association
district and state contests.
In 1996, the Rock Ensemble and the Classical Guitar Quartet
competed in the Peachtree Classic Music Festival in Atlanta where both groups
won first place trophies with "Superior" ratings. While the group was in Atlanta
they performed at Underground Atlanta to a large enthusiastic audience. Everyone
had a great time, and returned home proud of their accomplishments.
Also in 1996, the Rock Ensemble performed Sergeant Peppers Lonely
Hearts Club Band as recorded by the Beatles. Props, costumes, and special lighting
effects were used for this ambitious performance and was a complete success.
In 1997, the Rock Ensemble and the Classical Guitar Septet traveled to New York
where theyboth received First Place Trophies and "Superior" ratings at the Big
Apple Music Festival. The Classical Guitar Septet received the highest scores
at the Festival and Elizabeth Arbelo received an "Outstanding Vocal Solo" award
for her interpretation of "Crazy on You".
The Rock Ensemble provides an excellent forum for its members
to display their talents, determination, and dedication as well as their intelligence;
all of which are important factors in succeeding in the business of music. Mr.
Doug Burris has been the group's director for years and believes that "every
person should develop his/her artistic potential to the highest possible level
and that proficiency in singing and/or playing a musical instrument should be
part of this development."
The Miami Beach High School Rock Ensemble has proven to be a valuable
performance medium which profoundly influences the lives of young people.