Boardman orchestra awarded at national competition

The Boardman High School orchestras were awarded top honors at the Heritage National Music Competition in Chicago, Ill. on April 25. Participating groups from Boardman were symphony and chamber orchestras. bands, choirs, jazz ensembles and orchestras from as far north as Canada to as far south as Tennessee participated in this festival.

The Boardman orchestras received the following array of awards: the Boardman chamber orchestra received a “Gold” rating and was awarded the “Outstanding Instrumental Ensemble” of the competition as they received the highest overall score. The Boardman symphony orchestra also received a “Gold” rating. The groups also returned to Boardman with the “Sweepstakes for Best Overall Instrumental Program” trophy. The Sweepstakes trophy is awarded to the group that best represents its school in not only performance, but professionalism and character. A final “Adjudicator’s Award” was presented to the group for a combined highest score of two groups. In addition, the judges awarded special “Adjudicator Recognition” trophies for outstanding solos to Vincent Huzicka (viola), Eric Baker (violin) and Julian Reyes (violin).

“We are very proud of our orchestra students, both in their high level of performance and their representation of not only our music program, but the entire school and community,” Orchestra director Michele Prokop said. “The orchestra performed a very challenging program including works of Brahms, Khatchaturian, Tschaikowsky and Vaughan Williams at a professional level. It is truly a privilege to instruct such a dedicated and talented group of students.”

The Orchestra Program in Boardman Schools is taught by Michele Prokop, Bill Amendol and Tim Tuite.

While in the Chicago area, members of the orchestras visited the Willis (Sears) Tower, Chicago Symphony, Blue Man Group and the famous “Magnificent Mile” shopping district. Funds for travel and competition are provided by the families of orchestra members, the Boardman Band and Orchestra Parents Association and support from the Boardman community.

The Orchestras now will prepare for their next concerts for the community where much of the literature from the National Competition will be showcased. The High School Orchestras will perform on May 20 at 7 p.m. in the BPAC auditorium. Music from the national competition in addition to senior soloist Frances Clause on Bassoon will be featured.

Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for students with senior citizens and pre-schoolers admitted free of charge.