Band students attending Band Leadership Camp at Howard Payne University paid tribute on Friday to fallen firefighter Greg Simmons and other volunteer firefighters during a special concert at HPU’s Mims Auditorium.  Simmons’ 15-year-old daughter Karley was among the students playing the special piece of music in his memory.

Karley, a student at Eastland High School, is one of almost 300 students from 70 schools across the state who visited HPU this week for the Band Leadership Camp, led by Corey Ash, HPU’s director of bands. Friday’s event was a culmination of hard work featuring the Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble.  The event concluded with the special selection honoring the fallen firefighter.

Karley said that Dr. Robert Tucker; dean of music, fine arts and extended education at HPU; suggested playing the piece, and it was a special moment for her.

“It feels really great knowing that I can still honor my dad,” said Karley after the event.

Tucker has given Karley French horn lessons for two years.

The Wind Ensemble showcased the special music selection “The Spirit Descending,” composed by Jordan Robert Tucker, Dr. Tucker’s son, which is based on the hymn “Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart.”

Emotions ran high for some, including Karley, during their performance.

“It was very difficult,” Karley said.  “I felt like crying through the whole thing, but I tried to be tough.”

A volunteer with the Eastland County Fire Department, Greg Simmons was killed April 15 while battling wildfires that raged throughout Eastland County. Other survivors include his wife, Carrie, and daughter Kateland.

Volunteer firefighters from the region attended the concert to honor their fallen comrade.  Pictured above is Karley Simmons (center) with the Lake Brownwood Dam Fire Department.

Click the video below to watch the tribute played by the students.

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