Students Compete at State Music Contests
by Tammy Gigstad
The high school music department finished the contest season by attending two state contests. The high school band traveled to Atchison to compete at State Band contest on April 15. The band performed two pieces titled “Praises” and “Declaration Overture.” Three judges critique the performance both written and orally. For the 8th year in a row, our band received the highest rating of “I”. Principal Gary Bedigrew drove the truck and trailer loaded with instruments with Jane Naumann and Jack Rockhold as our bus drivers.
Then on Saturday, April 30, 16 students traveled to Southeast Saline High School near Gypsum, Kansas for state solo and ensemble contest. To qualify for this contest, the students must receive a “I” rating at regional contest. Although no “I” ratings were received at state, the students performed very well and were proud to represent our school. Students earning the honor of competing at state were: Molly Lyon, vocal solo, Katie Noll, trumpet solo, Jordyn Mize, trumpet solo, Sara Navinskey vocal and trombone solo, Flute Trio (Jessica Benner, Sara Peres, Jordan Kramer) and the Brass Ensemble (Andrew Becker, Laura Wallace, Nick Clark, Krista Weishaar, Emma Bassette, Erin Wallace, Sara Navinskey, Curtis Brown, Spencer Wentz and Shane Noll).
After competition, bus driver, Teresa Atzenweiler, stopped at Abilene so the group could enjoy a delicious fried chicken dinner at the Brookville Hotel.
Congratulations to all contestants on their many fine competitions this year.
