April 16, 2015
On Saturday, April 11th, the Lincoln Junior High Bands traveled to McCutcheon High School to compete in the Indiana State School Music Association Organizational Festival for junior high and middle school bands. Both of the Lincoln Junior High bands had outstanding performances and earned the top rating of a Gold Award.
The 7th grade band earned gold ratings from all judges and also earned the additional “With Distinction” award. They performed the following: Ancient Voices by Michael Sweeney, Psalm 42 arranged by Samuel Hazo, and España Cañí arranged by Michael Story. Riley Humphrey played a courageously long solo on Psalm 42. Hailey Casper and Hugh Smith performed a fiery duet in España Cañí.
The 8th grade band performed in group one, the most challenging group level, and also earned straight golds. They performed Aventura by James Swearingen, Ballade by Darren Jenkins, and Queen City March by W.H. Boorn. Soloists included Katy Smith on flute; Leslie Dorantes, Tess Petzke, Kate Renneker, and Michaela Bush on clarinet; Jessica Baca and Mercedes Bastardo on alto saxophone, Jackson Lee on baritone saxophone, Nick Spier on trumpet, Cameron Clarkson on baritone, and Jordan Meadway on vibraphone.
“I am extremely proud of the level of musicianship that was displayed this weekend by the 7th grade band. The 8th graders played very difficult music and many students had exposed solo parts. I am extremely proud of all the band members in both grades though. I am excited for what these students will do in the future,” said band director Lisa Wallyn.
If you missed these performances, you can hear some of these selections and more this coming weekend at the Lincoln Junior High Craft Show and Nelson’s Port-a-Pit Chicken sale. Bands, choirs, and orchestras from Lincoln Junior High School and Riverside Intermediate School will be featured alongside many different craft and food items. The event runs from 11:00-2:00 on Saturday, April 18th in Lincoln’s gyms and cafeteria.