It is not often that a high school orchestra gets to premier a piece of music by a well-known composer.  The musicians at Brighton High School got that honor earlier tonight when they got to perform BRIGHTON PROCESSIONAL, Op. 115, written for them by Dr. Crawford Gates.  The students did a wonderful job with the piece and Dr. Gates indicated that to have children of that age perform one of his pieces was a highlight of his career.  (Dr. Gates wrote one other piece for a high school orchestra - his own - but it was too advanced.) 

To have a commissioned work from a composer of Dr. Gates' reputation would normally cost quite a bit.  Dr. Gates, however, graciously did the work for a small payment to a charity of his choice - the Perpetual Education Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The students were also provided with the treat of performing for some of Utah's musical greats.  Not only was Dr. Gates in attendance, but Robert Cundick (former Tabernacle Organist and well known composer) and the widow of Maurice Abravanel were in the audience.   The students repaid the compliment by performing Dr. Gates' work beautifully.

Congratuations to Dr. Gates on his work, to Brighton's music guru Mr. Madsen and all the students of the Brighton Orchestra.

As a side note, one of the questions that continues to face public education is how to reward teachers that go above and beyond and inspire their students.  Five years ago Mr. Madsen came to Brighton High School.  He had 18 students in the orchestra.  Today, Brighton's Orchestra is 85 strong and receiving awards both in Utah and out of state.