📰 Latest News

Monday, October 06, 2025

Fine Arts Shine Bright: Band and Choir Members Crowned Homecoming Royalty

The Platte County Music Parents Association (MPA) is thrilled to celebrate an unforgettable Homecoming Week in Pirate Nation! Homecoming King, Finley Pennington, was crowned Wednesday evening during the Victory Supper, and Homecoming Queen, Adelaide Bonsignore, received her crown Friday night at halftime of the Pirates’ football game against the Smithville Warriors. The celebrations brought waves of pride across the community — especially as both this year’s King and Queen proudly represent the Fine Arts! This year’s Homecoming Queen, Adelaide Bonsignore, is a senior and talented trumpet player in the Pride of Platte County Marching Band and Jazz Band. Her passion, leadership, and musicianship have made her a cornerstone of the band program. Joining her is Homecoming King, Finley Pennington, a senior member of the Sound Express show choir and an active participant in the theatre department. His performances radiate energy and dedication, embodying the very spirit of creativity and excellence that Platte County’s fine arts are known for. The Fine Arts also proudly claim additional members of this year’s Homecoming Court: Cash Francis – Junior King, Band Noah Belcher – Sophomore King, Choir The Platte County MPA recognizes and celebrates all of these incredible students who represent the strength, unity, and talent of our music and theatre programs. Their achievements remind us that leadership and artistry go hand-in-hand — both on and off the stage. “This year, the crown doesn’t just sparkle,” said the MPA Board. “It sings, it plays, it performs. Adelaide, Finley, Cash, and Noah embody the very best of Platte County’s spirit — proof that our students shine not only under Friday night lights, but also in the rehearsal room, on the concert stage, and in the theatre.” The Platte County Music Parents Association extends heartfelt congratulations to all of these outstanding students. The entire community celebrates with you — proud to see the Fine Arts take center stage at this year’s Homecoming! Contact: Platte County Music Parents Association Contact secretary@pcmpa.org for more details.

📸 Platte County High School Facebook Page

Friday, April 11, 2025

Platte County Band Hosts Air Force's Airmen of Note On Their 2025 Spring Tour

The Platte County High School Band is honored to host the United States Air Force’s premier jazz ensemble, the Airmen of Note, as part of their Midwest tour! Founded in 1950 to carry on the legacy of Major Glenn Miller’s Army Air Forces dance band, the Airmen of Note is made up of 17 world-class active-duty musicians and one incredible vocalist. They bring an unforgettable program blending big band classics from the 1940s with exciting new compositions written just for this tour. This free concert is a rare and inspiring opportunity to experience the excellence, artistry, and patriotism that the Airmen of Note represent. Join us as we welcome one of the finest jazz ensembles in the world right here to Platte County!

📸 Air Force

Thursday, February 06, 2025

Platte County Jazz Ensemble to Perform at Northwest Missouri State University’s Jazz Festival

The Platte County High School Jazz Ensemble will perform at the Northwest Missouri State University Jazz Festival on Friday, Feb. 21, sharing the stage with more than 20 middle and high school ensembles from Iowa, Nebraska, and Missouri. As part of the event, students will showcase their talents, listen to top groups from across the region, and participate in a jazz improvisation clinic led by the acclaimed Doug Talley Quartet. This opportunity allows Platte County musicians to perform, grow in their jazz skills, and celebrate the impact of jazz as part of a wider festival supported by Northwest’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts and the Missouri Arts Council.

📸 Lauren Adams

Sunday, December 22, 2024

Sounds of the Holidays: Platte County Sound Express Shines on KSHB 41

The holidays were made even brighter this year as the Platte County Sound Express took the stage as part of Sounds of the Holiday on KSHB 41 and 38 The Spot. Decked out in festive attire and full of Pirate Pride, the talented students of Sound Express brought their energy, spirit, and rich harmonies to this Kansas City tradition. Their heartfelt performance captured the joy of the season, sharing music that resonated with families across the metro. Platte County Sound Express was honored to perform alongside outstanding choirs from across the region, including Belton, Blue Springs, Ray-Pec, and Park Hill South.

📸 KSHB Staff

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

The Big Apple Show Delivers Big Results for Pride of Platte County

The Pride of Platte County Marching Band capped off an unforgettable 2023 season filled with hard work, creativity, and tremendous success. Featuring a New York City-themed show titled The Big Apple, the band blended music from Gershwin, Taylor Swift, Billy Joel, and Macklemore, while showcasing intricate field formations like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty. Band members poured over 200 hours into rehearsals, earning top honors across Missouri competitions, including Grand Champion titles at Missouri Western State University and Cameron MarchFest. Led by Director Dr. Matthew H. Bonsignore and a passionate team of directors, students not only achieved impressive results but also built friendships, memories, and life skills that will last far beyond the season.

📸 Rimsie McConiga

Wednesday, March 01, 2023

Dr. Bonsignore: A Legacy of Growth, Excellence, and Heart at Platte County Bands

Since arriving at Platte County R-3 in 1999, Matthew Bonsignore has helped transform the band program from a small 3A high school ensemble into a thriving, award-winning organization featuring multiple bands, a premier jazz program, and a competitive marching unit. Under his leadership, the district grew from two to six full-time directors, expanding opportunities for middle and high school students alike. Bonsignore’s passion for jazz, developed early in life, shaped the Jazz Ensemble into a nationally recognized group, winning numerous awards and placing students into prestigious state and national ensembles. Throughout his career, Bonsignore has championed a family atmosphere rooted in hard work, resilience, and lifelong relationships, crediting the success of Platte County’s music program to the students' grit, supportive community, and a deep commitment to excellence in both music and personal growth.

📸 Rimsie McConiga