VWHS Symphonic Band sets concert

VWHS band information

The Van Wert High School Symphonic Band will travel to the Ohio Music Education Association’s State Band and Choir Finals this Saturday, April 25, at Findlay High School. This the 10th time in 11 years the band has qualified for the competition.

To help prepare for the contest, the band will perform this Wednesday, April 22, on the stage of the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, starting at 7:30 p.m. The informal concert will feature the band’s three contest pieces, while Brian Stevens of Dublin Jerome High School will act as guest clinician for the performance, and will also rehearse the band following the concert. The public is encouraged to attend the free concert.

This Saturday, the Symphonic Band will perform at 10:05 a.m. in the Findlay High School auditorium. The band will be performing a challenging Class B program that includes “Cenotaph” by Jack Stamp, “The Witching Hour” by Randall Standridge and “An American Heritage” by Ryan Nowlin. The Symphonic Band is under the direction of Robert H. Sloan.

Following its performance, the band will not have to wait long to find out its final rating, which will be posted in the school’s cafeteria shortly after the performance.

“Regardless of outcome, it should be noted that making it to State Finals is an outstanding accomplishment,” Sloan said.

For those planning to attend the competition, OMEA regulations prohibit the use of any audio or video recording devices, including, but not limited to, cell phones, cameras (still or video), tape recorders or any other recording device. Failure to comply may result in the disqualification of a school.

Following the state contest, the band will prepare for several spring performances, including its Spring Concert, VWHS graduation and the Peony Festival Grand Parade.

For more information on any of these events, visit the Van Wert bands website at www.vanwertbands.org, “like” them on Facebook at “Van Wert Bands Information”, following the bands on Twitter at “@vwbands” or call the VWHS Music Department at 419.238.3722.