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Band, Choir Successful at Solo and Ensemble Competition
Story by Bessie LeRose
On March 3, the PHS solo and ensemble competed at Lakeland College in the district competition. The contest was a success—resulting in a new county record for state qualifiers.
PHS sent 250 entrees; band sent 215 events, chorus sent 35 events and there were 10 piano entrees. The amount of entrees is about the same as last year’s festival, however, the difference was in state qualifiers.
“This year, we had 65 events going to state, a county record. Last year, we sent 57, so this is a great accomplishment,” said band director Jason Sebranek.
 Receiving a starred first on an ensemble or solo at contest allows a student to play at state. It is a hard honor to achieve, and this year, many students had multiple events continuing on.
“All of my events went to state, but solo and ensemble was really backed up so it made people more nervous, and the judges were harsh this year,” said senior Mary Ryan.
To be allowed to compete at solo and ensemble, the band has to pass pre-fest. During pre-fest, students perform for judges during the school day and are judged on whether or not they will be ready in time for contest.
To continue on to contest, a student needs to receive a grade of an A or B. If a student receives a C, his or her event is cut and they will not continue on to solo and ensemble.
The band begins practicing their ensembles during class time six weeks before contest. Having the extra practice time and help of Eunice Frey and Sebranek help the students perform better.
“Practicing during school for it [solo and ensemble] helps me excel as a soloist and benefits our band as a whole. It is nice to have the extra playing time to better me as a player,” said junior Ben Dimig, who plays the trumpet in Wind Ensemble.
Lots of hard work and dedication helped the band excel at this years solo and ensemble. The state competition is on April 28 at UW Milwaukee, so there is plenty of time for students to relax and enjoy their accomplishments.
“The band rocks, and I’m just really proud because we did so well overall,” said junior Jenna Vater. |
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