Middle school musicians

Van Wert and Parkway middle school musicians got a chance to make beautiful music, as well as an opportunity to learn about new things and just have some fun together during a event held Wednesday at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio. VWMS instrumental instructor Tina Decker got the idea for the event and set it up with Parkway band director Ryan Twigg. In addition to performing selections they have been practicing since November 2012 (below), the young musicians got the chance to listen to motivational speaker Fran Kick, ate free pizza for lunch, got free t-shirts and also had their choice of seeing an Ohio State University Marching Band demonstration, tour the NPAC, learn about music writing and arranging or conducting or watch a video during the event, which was sponsored by the Saltzgaber Music Fund and Leslie Music Trust, Van Wert Band Parents, Roger and Kay Okuley, Collins Fine Foods and Cooper Foods. (photos by Dave Mosier/Van Wert independent)