The Greenhill band will play their first concert of the year on Oct.  21 with music that features popular Halloween-themed tracks.  

The event, officially known as the Pops Concert, is held annually to showcase well-known songs rather than the more traditional pieces that are typically played at band concerts, according to the Band Assistant Director Tony Lopez.  

The Pops appeal to a wide audience because of the variety of music performed. Such variation exists because the theme consists of many different styles.  

“During the concert we normally play more trendy, pop music, stepping aside from the typical jazz, classical piece,” Lopez said.  

Freshman Luke Rajji, who is an alto saxophone player, has been practicing to prepare for the show.   

“We are rehearsing the music we are going to play a lot and focusing in on the smaller details to play the piece fluidly,” Rajji said.  

With this being Rajji’s first concert of Upper School, he notes this preparation has been key to helping him build confidence.   

 “If you focus on the fun, and enjoy the music, then learning and improving will come naturally,” Rajji said. “I am not nervous.”   

For the class of 2026, this is their last Pops Concert of Upper School. As a result, the seniors in the band are excited, according to senior Sanay Nesargi.   

“Yeah, I am really excited,” Nesargi said. “We do the concert every year, so I am excited to end my last Pop Concert on a strong note.”  

The band started practicing music for this concert right after their Founders Day performance. Even with little time to prepare, Nesargi says that they practice playing the best they can. 

“We just started the music, and honestly, we have made a lot of progress,” Nesargi said. “I think we will be well prepared for the concert when it comes.”   

With a large portion of the band graduating last year, the number of members has significantly decreased in size this year.   

Lopez, in his role as assistant conductor of the band, has been working to get to know the new freshman, while adjusting to the smaller band size.   

“A ton of our old seniors graduated, but the new group of freshmen have been fantastic, and we are doing great,” Lopez said. “Smaller does not mean worse.”   

Lopez says band is motivated, and determined to make this night a memorable, fun experience for all who come.   

“We have got a great group, and I know they won’t disappoint,” Lopez said.