Perry High School Band Honors Fallen Principal and Student in Emotional Tribute Concert

A Night of Healing Through Music

The Perry High School band delivered a powerful performance this week, dedicating their spring concert to Principal Dan Marburger and 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff – two lives tragically cut short in January's school shooting. The event transformed from a typical recital into a cathartic celebration of resilience.

Symbolic Gestures Woven Into Performance

• The Empty Chair: A single vacant seat stood center stage with Principal Marburger's jacket draped across it
• Musical Memorial: The program included special arrangements of Jolliff's favorite songs
• Community Presence: Nearly 300 attendees - triple the normal turnout - packed the auditorium

When Notes Speak Louder Than Words

Band director Mark Schneider choked back tears as he addressed the crowd: "Tonight we play not just for college recruiters in attendance, but for our Perry family. Every note carries memories of Ahmir's laughter and Mr. Marburger's steadfast support."

The percussion section unveiled a customized bass drum head bearing both victims' names - a permanent addition to their instrument collection. Audience members received commemorative programs featuring never-before-shared photos of Marburger attending last year's holiday concert.

Healing Through Harmony

1. Opening Piece: "Fanfare for the Common Man" - Marburger's reported favorite composition
2. Middle Section: A medley from "The Lion King" (Jolliff's beloved musical)
3. Finale: Original arrangement titled "Perry Strong" incorporating school fight song motifs

A Community's Next Steps Forward

College scouts from five Iowa universities attended, with three offering immediate scholarships to senior performers. The school board announced all proceeds will fund a new music therapy program and memorial practice room renovation.

As lights dimmed on the final chord, students spontaneously formed a circle on stage, arms interlocked - a visual testament to the unbreakable bonds forged through shared grief and artistic expression.

What Do You Think?

• Should schools implement mandatory music therapy after traumatic events?
• Is dedicating performances to victims an appropriate memorial or potentially retraumatizing?
• Would you send your child back to a school after a shooting incident?
• Do musical tributes provide real healing or just temporary comfort?
• Should media cover memorial events like this or respect them as private grief?

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