— by Kristen Wilson for Music Advocacy Group —
This may look like an ancient ceremonial rite, but it’s actually a “band bonding picture” says Band instructor Darren Dix – taken right before they competed
The Orcas High School Band may be small, but they’re strong! The nine-member band brought home “I” or “Superior” ratings from both judges at a regional contest in Bellingham on March 27. Playing under the direction of Darren Dix, the Orcas band competed with 23 other high school bands at the San Juan Music Educators Association (SJMEA) Sr. Large Group Band Contest at the Performing Arts Center on the Western Washington University Campus.
“No other school in our bracket received a ‘I’ from BOTH judges,” Dix proudly pointed out. A superior rating, according to the SJMEA guidelines, is given to “a performance at the highest level of artistry and technical proficiency that can expected of a high school student.”
The Orcas musicians played “Abington Ridge,” a bold overture by Ed Huckeby, and “Fantasia on the Dargason,” the stunning finale from Holst’s “Second Suite in F,” arranged by Stanton.
“Hello Orcas!” said one judge. “What a lovely opening! I can tell you folks have worked hard!” “Nice attention to detail!” and “Keep up the great work!” Another judge added, “Great ensemble!”
Members of the Orcas High School Band who competed in Bellingham include Claire Bishop Martin, Eric Eagan, Holden Griskey-Watson, Josephine Gudgell, Keith Light, Devon Mann, Kaya Osborn, Magdalyn Paige, and Kahana Pietsch.
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