Triple-Gold Sweep at MusicFest!
Posted: May 18, 2012
St. Andrew’s concert bands have received national recognition for musical excellence after earning triple gold at MusicFest Canada.
With 120 student musicians attending this week’s competition in Ottawa, it was the largest group the School has ever sent, and the first year ever for the Middle School band. The Upper School Wind Ensemble last competed in 2010, when it also earned top spot and the distinction of being among the best school concert bands in Canada.
Now in its 40th year, MusicFest Canada is an annual national event that brings together more than 10,000 of Canada's finest young musicians who perform for recognition as the country's foremost musical ensembles.
These victories are significant achievements that not only highlight the musical talent of SAC students, but also underscore the success of SAC’s music program and skill of its dedicated directors, Sandi Chasson, Head of Music, and John Richardson, Middle School Music Teacher.
Both bands earned the coveted triple-gold designation, signifying all three adjudicators awarded a gold standard for achieving excellence in all facets of the performance. The Festival also honours one individual from each ensemble for an outstanding performance. Awards of Excellence went to Owen Luo, grade 8 for his brilliant trumpet playing in the junior band, and Sean Smith, grade 12, for his skillful playing of the euphonium in the Wind Ensemble.
“I would like to say how proud I am of each of the musicians; they did an amazing job,” says Mr. Richardson. Ms. Chasson notes how pulling together for the ultimate result is something these talented students have thrived on--never mind the weeks of hard work and rehearsals spent in preparation. “This has been such a great experience for us, the ultimate collaborative experience, and I couldn’t be prouder of their achievements,” she adds.
There will be no resting on their laurels, however, as next week rehearsals ramp up for the summer Music trip to London where SAC musicians will perform at the 2012 Olympics.
Story by Cindy Veitch
