Coffeyville, KS – Coffeyville, KS – The Coffeyville Community College (CCC) Music Department kicked off the season with a Fall Band and Choir Concert on Thursday, October 16, 2025, in the Spencer/Rounds Theatre.
The event, held immediately following CCC’s annual Trunk or Treat, was free and open to the public and drew a crowd of more than 110 attendees.
CCC President Dr. Thornburg praised the evening’s success, stating, “It was refreshing to see so many come out to support the Fine Arts programs and our talented students at the concert. This capped off a very successful evening of activities on campus, as well over 700 community members participated in the Trunk or
Treat event.”
The evening showcased impressive performances from both ensembles, directed by Aaron Burke, CCC’s new Band Director, and Kristi Reedy, Choir Director. The choir sang pieces including Johanna from Sweeney Todd, The Sound of Silence, You Say, and Livin’ on a Prayer. Ryan Ditmer performed a vocal solo of Johanna.
Lillyauana Hargis was a soloist on Livin’ on a Prayer and also joined Hayden Bates as a featured soloist on You Say. The choir included eleven CCC students and two community members. The CCC Band played Littleton, Into the Clouds!, and the crowd-favorite Thriller, infusing the stage with energy and excitement. The band consisted of eight student musicians and three community members, highlighting CCC’s ongoing
commitment to involving both students and local performers in its music programs.
Burke, who recently joined the CCC faculty as Director of Music, brings over 15 years of experience directing collegiate, community, and secondary ensembles. He holds a Master of Music Education from Wichita State
University and a Bachelor of Music Education from Kansas State University, and his ensembles have performed at prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall.
Known for his commitment to community engagement through music, Burke shared, “It was great to see so many students, faculty, and community members in attendance at the Music Department's first concert of the year! I have thoroughly enjoyed working with these great students in both the band and the choir, and it is
exciting to see all of the potential in the department. It's a joy to share our hard work with the Red Raven community. Be sure to attend our Holiday Favorites concert December 4th at 7pm.”
Reedy also expressed her pride in her students and gratitude for the community’s support, saying, “Thank you to our CCC family and friends for coming out to support and encourage our amazing choir at our first concert of the year. I am extremely proud of this choir and looking forward to more spectacular performances from this group! Bravo to all!”
After the successful concert this fall, CCC’s band and choir are already gearing up for upcoming events, such as Raven Holiday on November 21 and the Winter Concert on December 4.