SHS student hopes “Dirty Deeds” pays off

By ADAM STEWART Staff Reporter

Grant Allison is hoping to direct some cash into the band program’s budget. PHOTO BY ADAM STEWART | STANWOOD/CAMANO NEWS Beyond filling the requirements for his senior project, Stanwood High School student Grant Allison is hoping to direct some cash into the band program’s budget.

Allison, who plays alto sax in the pep and jazz bands, organized fellow students and staff to participate in the third annual School of Rock Battle of the Bands.

The competition, sponsored by The Rock Wood Fired Pizza and KZOK 102.5 FM in Seattle, involves 33 high school pep bands from western Washington.

Using their own arrangements of popular classic rock songs, participating bands have produced music videos to vie for a $10,000 grand prize.

Allison was inspired to get SHS involved after eating at The Rock.

He approached the SHS band director, Doug Morasch, with the idea.

“Grant is a leader,” said Morasch. “He had the project all lined out from the beginning.”

Students in the band shared Allison’s enthusiasm.

“Everyone was excited about the project,” he said. “It was challenging, but fun.”

The project forced Allison to organize schedules, shoot video and edit the final cut.

Diving in without traditional video production skills didn’t discourage Allison. He credits Wendy Carletti, a teacher in the career and technical education department, for providing guidance.

“I’ve never done anything like this before. I’m happy with the way it turned out,” he said.

Now, Allison hopes the video gains some attention.

To survive the first round of cuts, SHS’s rendition of “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” by AC/DC must gain votes from the public.

Entries can be viewed online at www.therockwfp. com/category/botb-2010.

Between Jan. 5 and Feb. 2, people can vote for their favorite school via text message. Specific text voting instructions, including corresponding school codes, will be available on www.kzok. com by Jan. 5.

Ten finalists will be judged by a panel of judges to determine prizes.

Recognizing some stiff competition, Allison noted the sound quality of SHS’s entry.

As a band competition, judges will focus on the performance, said Allison.

“We have a really good recording,” he said.

The Rock’s co-founder Don Bellis said the event is structured to motivate students.

“The kids in these pep bands are the next rock stars,” said Bellis. “They’re so talented and money for high school pep bands is in short supply. It’s a privilege to reward them.”

Organizers hope the event sparks an appreciation for classic rock with a new generation, he added.

As a fan of Led Zepplin and the Beatles, Allison was a good match for the project. In addition to the sax, the passionate musician also plays the guitar, drums and bass.

If all goes well, Allison hopes the video will help what he refers to as, “a really good band program with a great director.”

The funds could allow bands to participate in more competitions and events, experiences Allison has particularly enjoyed during his high school career.

Morasch said it would be hard to determine where the money would go, but agrees with Allison that traveled-to events are high on the priority list.

“These trips provide lifelong memories,” he said.

And, a few new instruments wouldn’t hurt.

Staff Reporter Adam Stewart: 629-8066 ext. 115 or astewart@scnews.com.