The month of March is nationally recognized as “Music In Our Schools Month”, a time to celebrate the important role music plays in students’ education and development. Throughout District 64, instrumental music students in band and orchestra have been busy this month showcasing their growth, dedication, and creativity through a variety of meaningful performance experiences.
One highlight of the month were the Band Progress Concerts at Maine South High School. These concerts provided students with the opportunity to perform on stage in the Maine South High School auditorium while demonstrating the progress students make from beginning band in fifth grade all the way through high school. Families and community members were able to hear firsthand the hard work students and directors have invested in rehearsals and lessons, and to celebrate the growth of these young musicians.
Another major event this month was the Orchestra Solo & Ensemble Festival, an exciting and ambitious evening of music-making that brought together more than 400 orchestra students from across the district. Throughout the event, students performed over 200 events in 10 different performance rooms. Each performance was evaluated by experienced judges who provided students with written and verbal feedback designed to support their musical growth. Students prepared their pieces for months in advance, working both independently and during lessons to refine technique, musicality, and performance skills. Many performances were supported by professional accompanists, giving students the valuable experience of collaborating with another musician, an important skill in the world of music performance.
This month also included a proud achievement for Lincoln Middle School’s Symphonic Band, which performed at the Northern Illinois Music Conference (NIMCON) Festival. The ensemble received a Division I rating, the highest rating possible. Participating groups perform for a panel of experienced music educators and receive both a rating and a clinic designed to help students continue improving their ensemble and performance skills. Their superior rating reflects the students’ dedication, preparation, and commitment to excellence. Way to go!
Events like the Band Progress Concerts, the Orchestra Solo & Ensemble Festival, and the NIMCON Festival highlight the depth and vibrancy of instrumental music education in our schools. Beyond learning notes and rhythms, students develop perseverance, creativity, collaboration, and confidence- skills that extend far beyond the music classroom. Music In Our Schools Month is a reminder of how powerful these experiences are for students and how fortunate our community is to support such thriving music programs. The dedication of our students, the support of families, and the commitment of our educators continue to make instrumental music an important and inspiring part of our schools. Special thanks to our band and orchestra directors- Mrs. Ballinger, Ms. Briggs, Mrs. Faulhaber Mr. Hellermann, Mrs. Hutter, Mr. Rybak, Mr Teater and Mr. Yoon.
Photos from Lincoln Symphonic Band at NIMCON
Photos from Orchestra Solo & Ensemble