Lakewood High School Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band traveled to Avon Lake High School to compete in the OMEA District Band Contest. This was the first contest for new director Mr. Harris at Lakewood. The Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band each played three selections for a panel of three judges.
Symphonic Band was one of the first to play in the morning. They played three pieces that were in class C. The judges gave them straight 2 (an excellent rating). The students were very proud of their performance. The judges also gave constructive criticism that they can use to improve on future performances.
Wind Ensemble played later in the day. The bands that played before them were receiving scores of 2s, 3s and 4s, very few earned 1s. The Wind Ensemble students were very nervous but also prepared for the performance. They played three selections in class B. It was a great performance and the judges gave them straight 1s! The judges were very impressed with the performance.
After the performance, each band goes to sight reading, where they play a piece of music that they’ve never seen before. The director and the students each study the music for 4 minutes and then the director has a chance to teach the students about the music for an additional four minutes. Symphonic Band received a 2 on their sight reading and Wind Ensemble received a 1.
This contest was a checkpoint for both bands progress throughout the year and they learned things they can improve on for their next concert and next year.
