FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC

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Ensemble. “That’s what a community organization like ours takes,” says clarinet musician and Ensemble board member Jon Stevens. “All those different partners and organizations allow us to exist.”

All for the love of music; from the musicians who enjoy performing with a band, to the rich cultural experiences they provide the community.

This is what motivates Olivarez to drive nearly 80 miles round-trip from his hometown of Rio Grande City to McAllen for rehearsals and concerts: “The love for music” and to carry on the legacy of the directors who came before him, including his own high school band director, Henry Rodriguez.

The McAllen Wind Ensemble is comprised of 60-70 volunteer musicians of varying ages and backgrounds--music educators, former marching-band members, retirees, former military, parents, students, medical professionals, and even professional performers.

Deone Johnson, a relatively new Winter Texan via Wisconsin, played trumpet professionally for 15 years. He humbly shares the legendary performers he’s accompanied. “Sammy [Davis, Jr.] was magical. Andy Williams was magical. Aretha Franklin was wonderful.”

This is Johnson’s second year with the Ensemble. And like Christenson-Boyd, he’s also quite impressed with the venue. “Playing at the Performing Arts Center is tremendous. It’s wonderful.”

The McAllen Wind Ensemble hosts concerts November, December, February, and April. The final concert of the season is themed Memories, with music selected specifically to evoke a memory or life experience from a television show, a church, or a rock concert.

During a recent rehearsal, Olivarez, who serves as the band’s musical director, stood centerpoint offering instruction, direction, and encouragement. He raised his arms, baton in hand, peering over his glasses to assess the readiness of the musicians…a brief moment of silence. He gestures and music engulfs the small hall.

“This fills a void in my world,” Olivarez shared earlier in the evening, “to make music.”

Memories is scheduled for April 2 at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 at the Box Office. Visit mcallenwindensemble. org for more information. •