The Burns High School concert band, under the direction of Ken Peckham, topped the entire Central Oregon Music Educators District Band Festival, outscoring all of the 3A, 4A, 5A and 6A bands that were participating in the festival.
The band performed “Symphony of Souls,” by Robert W. Smith; “Shenandoah,” by Frank Ticheli; and “Encomium for the Courageous,” by Nolan E. Schmit. Judging was based on musicality, tone, intonation, technical accuracy, choice of music and appearance. Burns’ closest competitors scored 11 points less than the Hilanders.
Following Burns’ performance, Judge LeRoy Anderson offered all of the senior band members scholarships to attend Mt. Hood Community College. Judge Brad Townsend, from Oregon State University, commended the group on their excellent attention to musical detail. Townsend closed his remarks with “Wow, what a great performance.”
With the extraordinary performance at district, the Burns band qualified to compete in the Oregon Schools Activities Association state band competition on May 7 at Oregon State University, in the LaSells Stewart Center. The public is welcome to attend and support the Burns musicians.
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March 26th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Good job. All Harney county should be proud of these kids.
March 31st, 2008 at 10:27 am
Thank You for taking the time to share the Band’s great news!!! I am so proud of these kids and the tremendous sacrifices that the students have made to remain a part of the program. With the mill closure and the trimester scheduling, we’ve lost many great musicians. Currently, students are taking classes on line to compensate for the trimester schedule that really chops the program. Their achievement over the 6A schools speaks highly of their effort to maintain excellence. When you see a band kid - tell them how awesome they are - Congratulations BHS Band!