High School Band Takes Center Stage at Music Conference
The Ottawa Township High School Wind Ensemble has been selected to perform at the Illinois Music Education Conference (IMEC) in Peoria. This prestigious event is a significant achievement, as only four high school bands from across Illinois are chosen each year.
Performance Details
- Date: January 30th
- Time: 8:15 - 9:30 a.m.
- Location: Peoria Civic Center Theater
The ensemble consists of the finest musicians from the high school's band program, showcasing their talent and dedication.
The Selection Process
Being selected for the IMEC is a rigorous process. Band directors from all over Illinois submit their ensembles for consideration. The application includes:
- Recordings
- Letters of recommendation
- Concert programs
A review committee evaluates these submissions and makes the final selections.
A Milestone Achievement
Band director Andrew Jacobi has previously attempted to get into this conference but was always turned down. This year, however, he received the good news. He attributes this success to the hard work and dedication of the students, who have been working diligently to rebuild the program after the COVID pandemic.
Community Support
Jacobi also credits the support of the entire Ottawa community, including the parents of the music students and his colleague, choir director Ali Stachowicz, for their constant support and enthusiasm. This backing has been instrumental in the program's growth and improvement.
Pre-Conference Concert
To prepare for the big performance, the band is hosting a free concert in their high school auditorium on January 26th at 7 p.m. This event provides the community with an opportunity to see the band in action before they head to the conference.
A Testament to Hard Work
This event is not just a showcase for the band but also a recognition of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved with support and commitment.
