District 202 Eighth-Grader Composes Song For Band

PLAINFIELD, IL — Aux Sable Middle School eighth-grader Graham Miller wanted to leave his mark on the school in a unique way.

So Miller, who plays trombone in the eighth-grade band, composed “Rise of a Fallen Kingdom” late last year for the band to perform.

The eighth-grade band performed the song during its final concert of the 2018-2019 school year.

Miller played his trombone during the performance.

He created the individual instrument parts on his piano hooked to a computer.

“It was incredible,” Miller said about hearing his piece being played live. “To hear it in real life with real instruments was awe inspiring.”

Miller’s dad, Dustin, helped produce the song.

The song begins quietly, becomes a march then ends dramatically, Miller said.

Miller asked Aux Sable Band Director Karen Bedore if he could compose a song for the band, Bedore said.

“I am beyond proud of him for this work, and really hope he continues to compose in the future” she said.

This is the first time a student composed a piece for a school ensemble.

Miller will be a freshman at Plainfield South High School this fall and plans to be in several bands including marching at the school.

Submitted by District 202