Simley Shapes Large Band Contest Into A Learning Opportunity

Inver Grove Heights MN

22 March, 2022

7:34 PM

Description

Press release from the Inver Grove Heights Schools: March 22, 2022 This March, Simley High School hosted the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) Region 3AA Large Group Band Contest. Typically, bands from surrounding high schools come to Simley to compete and a panel of judges scores each band's concert performances. This year, many bands chose not to participate after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Simley Wind Ensemble proceeded with the contest's usual setup, receiving feedback and a score, but the Simley Symphonic Band and Cottage Grove's Park High School Symphonic Band took the opportunity to play for the MSHSL judges just for feedback. This year's contest allowed students to listen to and learn from the other participating bands. It also served as an opportunity to introduce some younger band students to the experience of presenting their concert performances to a panel of judges. The MSHSL judges provided symphonic band students with feedback in the areas that they would typically score: tone quality, intonation, rhythm, balance and blend, technique, articulations, and other performance factors, such as the choice of literature, appearance, and conduct. After the performances, judges also acted as guest conductors, helping each band practice their pieces and strengthen their concert performances. The Simley Wind Ensemble was the final performance of the day. They played for both feedback and a score. Each of the judges scored them at a "superior" rating, which is the highest possible score. This is the 26th year in a row that the Simley Wind Ensemble has received superior ratings from every judge. Congratulations to Simley Wind Ensemble on their special performance and outstanding score! Great job to all of the students who participated, and thank you to the judges for helping students expand their experiences and skills! This press release was produced by the Inver Grove Heights Schools. The views expressed here are the author's own.