VWHS band, choir head to state contest

VWHS music program news

Following an outstanding district contest showing in early March, the Van Wert High School Symphonic Band and Concert Choir will travel to state contest this Saturday, May 4. The groups will perform as part of the Ohio Music Education Association State Band and Choir Finals. This is the ninth consecutive year the band has qualified and the third consecutive time for the choir.

The Symphonic Band will perform at 10:35 a.m. in the Gahanna Lincoln High School Auditorium. The band will be performing a challenging Class B program that includes “Serenade” by Derek Bourgeois, “Shine” by Michael Markowski and “Arabesque” by Samuel Hazo. The Symphonic Band is under the direction of Robert H. Sloan.

The Concert Choir will perform in the Gahanna West Middle School Auditorium at 12:35 p.m. on Saturday. The choir will be performing a challenging Class B program that includes “Danza”, “Good News”, and “From There”. The choir is under the direction of Julia Reichert and accompanied on piano by Marilyn Alessandrini.

Following their performances, the groups will not have to wait long to find out their final rating, as they are posted in the cafeteria shortly following each performance. Regardless of outcome it should be noted that making it to state finals is an outstanding accomplishment.

It should be noted that OMEA regulations prohibit the use of any audio or video recording devices including, but not limited to, cell phones, cameras (still or motion), tape recorders, or any other recording device. Failure to comply may result in the disqualification of the school.

Following state finals, the groups will continue to prepare for spring performances, including spring concerts and graduation.

For more information on any of these events, visit the VW band website at www.vanwertbands.org, “like” them on Facebook at Van Wert Bands Information, or call the Music Department at 419.238.3722.