In its previous performances, the band played for a familiar audience: friends and families. But next they will be judged by musicians at Azusa Pacific University, April 22, in preparation for a festival at Biola University, April 23.

The group first will visit Azusa’s campus to learn about the school’s music programs and attend a music workshop.

After visiting Azusa, the band will perform in the festival at Biola at 2 p.m. Students will listen to other groups to finish the day, then return to Fresno.

Unlike the last performance, music department head Michael Ogdon said there are specific purposes for traveling to these schools.

“The main intent is to participate in a Christian band festival,” Ogdon said. The second intent is for students to have an opportunity to think about attending a Christian college.”

Because of the band’s experience last year, sophomore Raine Hayes is looking forward to the trip.

“We had a lot of fun last year, so I’m ready to learn new things again this year,” Hayes said. “I actually think we are going to do very well because we’ve had some pretty good run-throughs and have had another week to practice.”

Band member Jessica Massie, ’11, said she is interested in visiting the campuses to learn about their music programs.

“I’m excited especially because I’m an upcoming senior and interested in seeing the campus from a musical perspective,” Massie said. “I’m looking forward for another opportunity to prove ourselves because we are such a small band and it’s so difficult for us to stand out.”

Although the last festival disappointed some members, senior Daniel Hopper remains optimistic for this upcoming performance, he said.

“We know what we need to fix and, after the workshop at Azusa, we should be more focused,” Hopper said. “For a small band, I would say we show a lot of promise. But I would love to see the group decide to do more with their talents to reach full potential.”

For more information, read the April 9 article, Spring concert highlights jazz, concert bands, and the March 25 article, Music groups to perform at local festivals.