The Marion Band Program hosted the ASBOA Region IV Concert Assessment for the first time in school history on Tuesday, earning top honors from among the 13 area bands competing for ratings and distinction.
The Marion High School Wind Symphony, under the direction of Monty Hill, earned straight Superior Ratings in concert performance and a Superior Rating in sight reading. Additionally, the Marion High School Symphonic Band, under the direction of Kristen Shepherd, also earned straight Superior Ratings in concert performance and a Superior Rating in sight reading.
These outstanding ratings also earned both MHS Bands the coveted ASBOA Sweepstakes Award. The Marion High School Bands were the only high school groups at the contest to receive Sweepstakes recognition.
Also Tuesday, the Marion Junior High 8th-Grade Symphonic Band, under the direction of Valerie Hill, earned straight Superior Ratings in concert performance and a Superior Rating in sight reading. This also earned the 8th-Grade Symphonic Band the coveted ASBOA Sweepstakes Award. MJHS had the only junior high band at the contest to receive sweepstakes.
For the first time in school history, the MJHS 8th Band had two bands compete at the regional level. The 8th-Grade Concert Band, under the direction of Sam Johnston and Andrew Coleman, earned an overall Excellent award in concert performance and a Superior rating in sight reading.
“All four of our bands performed very well at assessment,” said Director of Bands Monty Hill. “The Marion School District is very fortunate to have wonderful facilities that can help showcase the talent of the wonderful student musicians,” Hill added.
The Marion School District is an innovative and growing district committed to helping every student find their unique path to success in school and in life. With more than 150 years of experience serving families in Crittenden County, the district offers a high school, a junior high, and three award-winning magnet schools. For enrollment information, including information on school choice, visit https://www.msd3.org/ or call 870-739-5100.