The majority of the student body might not know this, but the Wind Ensemble is good.
The Lakewood High School Wind Ensemble had been hard at work preparing for state contest. They competed this at the OMEA State Band Contest this past weekend at North Royalton High School. Early last Saturday LHS band students were ready and eager for contest. After receiving straight 1s, a superior rating, at the district contest in March, the band spent one month preparing for the state competition. They learned one new piece, “Shine”, specifically for states. The two other songs they played were also from the district contest. The band played exceptionally well again to receive 1s at the state level. There was also a sight reading portion of the contest, where the band plays a song they have never seen before. They received a 2 in sight reading but the most important part of sight reading to get feedback and constructive criticism from the judge so they can improve on future performances.
The Wind Ensemble also had a somewhat of a fan club for states. Orchestra director Ms. Hankins was very supportive during contest. Hankins and a group of parents and fellow music students were there for support. “It was really awesome to have our parents, teachers, and peers going with us to states,” said senior Caroline Reed.
This was the first time the Wind Ensemble went to state contest since 1994 and the first of many under new director Mr. Harris. The Wind Ensemble next performs at their spring concert on Tuesday, May 13.