For members of the Del Norte High band department, it will be two days they will never forget.

On Sunday, 37 Del Norte High students and 17 more from the Brookings-Harbor High band joined forces and served as the opening act for the legendary group, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at a packed Azalea Park in Brookings.

Then on Monday, sixth- through 12-grade music students had the
opportunity to listen, ask questions, and even work with members of BBVD, as the group did outreach for the district.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is a high-energy swing band known for their rocking horn section, and exciting, tight shows. They have sold millions of records and were featured at halftime of the 1999 Super Bowl.

Local music supporter Nick Rail and the Partnership for the Performing Arts worked to bring the group to the area, with proceeds going to support Del Norte and Brookings-Harbor Highs’ music programs.

On Sunday, the combined high school bands performed four songs, earning a standing ovation from the 800-plus fans who paid to see the show, and raves from BBVD band members.

“I told them (the students) this is the largest crowd they will perform for until they turn professional,” said Del Norte High Band Director Daniel Sedgwick.

Then came the BBVD show, a 90-minute explosion of sound. Student band members crowded the dance floor, celebrating the moment.

“I heard more compliments on the dancing, the kids showing their
exuberance,” Sedgwick said. “They will never forget that day, 100 percent. It was a great moment. I am glad they took that opportunity.”

On Monday, the band performed again at Crescent Elk Middle School, sat down with students to answer questions and tell stories, and then broke off into sessions with musicians, with BBVD trumpet players working with trumpet students, saxophone players jamming with young saxophonists, etc.

Sedgwick praised the members of BBVD, calling them “awesome and down to earth.” He also had high marks for Rail and the PPA team, which is dedicated to building a community Performing Arts Center. Information on that project can be found on the ppadelnorte.org website.

“I want to properly thank Nick for this opportunity,” Sedgwick said. “For these kids, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”