Music was the universal language April 22 at the Global Studies and World Languages Academy at Tallwood High School.
For more than 15 years, the school has welcomed one of the international bands scheduled to perform at the Virginia International Tattoo at Norfolk Scope.
This year it was His Majesty the King’s Guard Band from Norway.
Students and faculty attended the concert featuring Tallwood’s Wind Ensemble and the prestigious 77-member Army band stationed in Oslo, Norway.
They performed each other’s national anthems together and the famous Norwegian march, “Entry March of the Boyars,” by composer Johan Halvorsen.
Tallwood band director Tim Rossettini said the school looks forward to the annual event.
“Students make connections across the world with the joy of music,” he said.
Global Studies and World Languages Coordinator Jessica Windish said the experience was invaluable.
“This is quite monumental for high school students to perform with professional musicians from another country,” she said.
Will Ragno and Nathan McCroskey are drum majors for Tallwood’s marching band and part of the Wind Ensemble.
Both said they welcomed the opportunity to meet and work with international musicians.
“We have lots of commonality and little differences,” said Will, a trombone player.
Nathan has performed with the visiting military bands for several years, including the Marine Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy in 2024. The senior played the euphonium – a mini tuba – in this year’s performance.
“It’s great learning to play pieces from other countries although it can be challenging,” he said.
Windish said the opportunity to exchange ideas and have conversations with those from different cultures is an important part of the day, too.
Before the concert began, several of the Norway bandmembers shared information and answered questions.
Their answers to “How do you spend your weekends?” included fishing, walks in the mountains and relaxing with friends.
Students learned that English is a required language in Norway beginning in the second grade and that the country’s population is much smaller compared to Virginia.
Freshman Jay Goff asked if they were musicians or members of the military. The answer was “both.”
Upon finishing secondary education, Norwegian citizens are required to serve in the military for about a year.
“I was a little surprised that you could be a musician in the military,” Jay said.
Privates Marie Minerva Bordi, Karoline Hilsen and Tidemann Teigre were asked what they like about America.
Their answers included “the Tattoo, of course,” “the warm weather,” “meeting other musicians” and “the opportunity to perform.” They also mentioned their fondness for local bagels.
When asked why they wanted to be part of a military band, responses centered around their love for playing music.
Marie – who plays the flute – said it had always been her goal to play in the King’s band.
“I might as well do something I love,” said Karoline, a French horn player.
Tidemann, a tuba player, said he values the opportunity to play with fellow musicians who share his passion.
The Virginia Arts Festival produces the Virginia International Tattoo at Norfolk Scope. Director of education and community engagement Christine Foust said they are grateful for the longstanding relationship with VBCPS.
“Tallwood has an accomplished band program and is also home to the district’s Global Studies and World Language Academy, making it a perfect for an international musical collaboration,” she said.
