News Briefs: New Trier musicians to represent U.S. in France; Plaza del Lago music series returns June 1; Art in the Village set for June 24-25

Five New Trier students will serve as United States ambassadors in the All-American D-Day Band this year, according to a release from New Trier High School.

With the band, the students will participate in the D-Day Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies in June in Normandy, France.

The band, which is sponsored by the U.S. Army and National Band Association, selected New Trier seniors Charlotte Calkins (horn), Roxana Jafari Haddadian (bass clarinet), Nikita Kovalov (trombone), Sophia Wang (clarinet) and Tyler Wang (tuba) following a comprehensive audition process in 2021.

“These five students are some of the finest instrumentalists in the nation, and I am so proud of their acceptance into the All-American D-Day Band,” New Trier Director of Bands Matt Temple said in the release.

Temple reportedly is a member of the National Band Association and nominated the five students in 2021.

According to the release, after being selected as finalists, the five students were given two weeks to learn and record a complex piece of music.

“Since so many band and orchestra trips and concerts at New Trier were unfortunately canceled or changed due to the pandemic, I was very excited by the possibility of getting to travel abroad and grow both as a musician and a person from the experience.” Calkins said.

In October, the students fundraised at New Trier’s homecoming football game to support the trip. The fundraiser is still open. To donate, CLICK HERE.

“Music is an empowering tool that allows us to unite with communities, foster inter-connectedness, and remind us of each other’s humanity.” Tyler Wang said. “… Giving back to the community with music is never an opportunity to take for granted, so auditioning and being accepted into the All-American D-Day band is a privilege I’m honored to step up to.”

Concert series opens June 1 at Plaza del Lago

Plaza del Lago has announced the lineup for its summer concert series.

The free outdoor shows run from 6:30-8 p.m. on every Thursday in June at the shopping center, 1515 Sheridan Road in Wilmette.

“We are so excited to carry on this fun, family-friendly event in this beautiful setting. This year’s concert lineup offers something for everyone and we’re looking forward to seeing the community come together for this great tradition,” said Arielle Weston, a spokesperson for WS Development, owners of the plaza, in a press release.

Billy Elton will kick off the series on Thursday, June 1, playing classics from Billy Joel and Elton John.

The series will continue with: One Night Band (June 8), Mr. Meyers (June 15), Rosie & The Rivets (June 22) and Rhythm Rockets (June 29).

Attendees are allowed to bring their own chairs and food. Visit the plaza’s Facebook page for more information.

Art in the Village scheduled for end of June

The North Shore Art League’s annual Art in the Village returns on Saturday-Sunday, June 24-25, to Hubbard Woods Park in Winnetka.

The league, which is now 99 years old, will host the juried art show from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day for more than 70 artists from across the country.

The art will include oil paintings,  mixed media, photography, sculpture and more. Also over the weekend, portrait artist Lisa DePinto will be on site to paint quick oil portraits. 

For more information about the NSAL and its programming, call (847) 446-2870 or visit northshoreartleague.org.  

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