HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0711.100 2008-2010Mr. Chairman,
My name is Anthony Adams. I grew up in Fort Dodge, Iowa where I learned to
play 4 different musical instruments and played in the school and municipal
bands and orchestras. I became interested in composing music and my first
private teacher was our city band director Karl L. King, world renown
composer of band music and second only to John Phillip Sousa. Our County
Band plays his music. I had my eye on composing music for films and the
concert hall so I left Iowa and went to California as college music major. I am
privileged to study with such working Hollywood composers as Elmer
Bernstein, Hugo Freidhoffer, Jerry Goldsmith, Nelson Riddle, and others. I
later worked professionally with these composers as well as Henry Mancini,
John Williams, John Barry, Miklos Rosza. And others. I wrote music
arrangements for many recording artists and many orchestras, from the
Boston Pops to the London Symphony Orchestra, as well as many original
compositions. I worked as a professional in the music industry; films,
television, recording, and live concerts for over 35 years and have served on
the board of directors of many professional organizations. Each year I cast
my vote for the Grammy and Emmy awards.
Two weeks after arriving in Hilo from Los Angeles, I was taken to a concert of
the Hawaii County Band. Expecting an amateur and not very professional
performance, 1 was shocked when I heard the high quality of this band. I have
heard many such bands all over the world and I can tell you that this band is
equal to the best and much better than most. I have written arrangements and
a new composition for this band and I know they will be performed with great
professional musicianship.
With a wonderful 127 -year history, I am sure you know that some members
have played in the band for many, many years...long after they left the high
school athletic field. The point is that participation in playing music stays with
people much longer than participating in sports (and with fewer injuries). I have
studied the science of music and wellness, which has been proven a very
important part of a healthy and pleasant life.
I strongly support the band and have received a few emails from friends who
also give their support; friends such as Oscar winning songwriter Paul Williams
(president of ASCAP), Richard Carpenter, John Williams, C.L. Barnhouse
(publishers of Karl King's music), Steve Wonder, Herb Alpert, Gary Valencia
no (from Manila), and many others. I know you have felt great pride in our
band and how it represents Hawaii County, not only with their monthly
concerts, but also in the Veterans Day and other parades around the island,
and... the July 4th celebration as they play "The Stars And Stripes Forever"
while we all watch the rocket's red glare. 1 I 1.1
Ref. Tot
Ref. T
Ref. Date MAR 2 2 2010
A band is a hallmark of any community and this one belongs to Hilo and
Hawaii County. They are an icon and a very valuable asset, a learning
environment for our young musicians and a source of continued pleasure for
local musicians and the audience...a very wise financial investment for the
county. During the Great Depression of the 1930's, music and entertainment
grew, as the people needed an outlet that would divert their attention away
from their financial troubles. I assure you that you will do Hilo and the county a
great service by proudly keeping our band playing for our community, our
county, Hawaii and the world.
Thank you very much for the honor to address you and the council today.
Anthony Adams