On October 7th the “Atlanta Pops”! This group is an orchestra that originates from Georgia, the Southeastern regions

of the US and beyond. Not only did the community and city of Elba receive an amazing concert from

these established players, the students at Elba High School benefited, as well. That day, students were

selected from the Elba High School Marching Tiger Band (EHSMTB) to attend master classes held by

the members of the Atlanta Pops. These lessons prepared the younger musicians for activities that

may happen later throughout their careers and even taught them how to properly take care of their

instruments. After attending the master classes, the students had lunch alongside the group before

they got ready for their concert later that evening. Following the EHSMTB members’ band practice, all

members were invited with reserved seats to sit in on their show. The students thoroughly enjoyed the

time they were able to spend with this group, and they cannot wait for their return!

Harley Sanders, a senior at Elba High School had this to say about the fun-filled day, “Even though I am

on Color Guard, I enjoyed the show that they put on a lot! It makes me sad to think that I won’t be here

next year to watch the performance, if they return, but I am grateful for the experience I had.” One of

the teachers pointed out, “I think it is amazing and quite beneficial to the students and community that

Mr. Hawthorne, and the administration of EHS can secure such an outstanding group to come to EHS to

instruct the band and play for the school and the community. Usually such a group would not be seen in

such a small school. It just shows what great things are happening at Elba High School!”

, 2014 Elba High School and the Coffee County Arts Alliance hosted a performance of