Galion High School’s performing arts department continued its strong tradition again this school year. For the fourth consecutive year, the Galion Symphonic Band will compete in the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Large Group Adjudicated competition at Findlay High School in late April.

The band, comprised of 35 members, earned a “Superior” rating at the OMEA Large Group District 2 contest at Oak Harbor High School Saturday, March 5. Competing in Class B, the band performed “Bonnie Eloise” by J.P. Thomas, “Metamorphosis” by Andrew Boysen Jr., and “On the Banks” by Matt Conaway.

“Preparations included two additional rehearsals after school and a major emphasis on our sight-reading skills,” Symphonic Band Director Jessica Hammond said. “Overall, the ensemble had a strong performance in the auditorium and scored very well in sight-reading, earning them a superior rating and advancement to the state contest.”

These adjudicated contests are subjective, but they are essential in setting musical goals, which we work collectively as a unit to attain. In addition, every instrumental part and student is critical to the overall ensemble sound, balance, blend, intonation, and musical expression.

“Congratulations to Mrs. Hammond and the students on this outstanding accomplishment,” Superintendent Jim Grubbs said. “The time, hard work and dedication of the Symphonic Band is paying big dividends and I am excited to see the results of their performance in Findlay.”