Ali Wilbert, a senior at Joplin High School, tried not to think about it.

On Monday night, she took her place on stage with the Joplin High School orchestra and played violin for director Terry Dolanc’s final concert.

“It’s bittersweet,” Wilbert said. “He has been my teacher for six years now, and he’s not going to be here for me to visit.”

Dolanc is retiring at the end of this school year. The director has taught orchestra for 44 years — 40 of those at Joplin and Parkwood high schools. He also has taught at middle schools in the district.

During Monday night’s performance, which featured senior soloists and the Strolling Strings orchestra, he received the Lois Bellm Friend of Music award.

He also thanked Joplin’s administration for supporting an orchestra for so long.

FULL STORY