Musicians compete, too! In February, Megan performed in two events at what is called the MSBOA (Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association) District Solo & Ensemble Festival. This is an optional event that her music director strongly encourages the students to participate in. Megan has participated the last three years.
Basically, you pick a piece of music, practice practice practice, then perform the piece in front of a judge. Afterwards, the judge verbally critiques your performance and then you await your results which are posted in the hallway. If you get a I or II you receive a medal for your performance.
Megan and her friend Alexis performed a clarinet-flute duet and Megan and Kasey performed a clarinet duet. In the end, both performances received a "I" rating which is the highest score. I believe the rating system is I through V (Roman Numerals). Receiving a I rating qualifies you to enter into the State High School Solo & Ensemble Festival.
I don't think I've mentioned it, but I also played the clarinet in high school. Both symphony band and marching band. Some of my fondest memories and bestest friends were the friends I made in music classes! Megan has, without hardly any bribery, followed in her old mom's footsteps. She is even using my clarinet from back in the day! This year, I would say that Megan has officially surpassed my playing abilities. (I would like to think it's due to my undying support and those private lessons!!!!) I have to admit, it is a bit surreal to share these experiences with your kid. The same things I used to do at her age!! High school sometimes seems like only yesterday to me!!
This past weekend was the State competition. These girls have such busy schedules, it is hard for them to find the time to practice. I was not at all sure they had done enough of it before this competition. However, they surprised me and came through with "I" ratings again at the State level!!!
Basically, you pick a piece of music, practice practice practice, then perform the piece in front of a judge. Afterwards, the judge verbally critiques your performance and then you await your results which are posted in the hallway. If you get a I or II you receive a medal for your performance.
Megan and her friend Alexis performed a clarinet-flute duet and Megan and Kasey performed a clarinet duet. In the end, both performances received a "I" rating which is the highest score. I believe the rating system is I through V (Roman Numerals). Receiving a I rating qualifies you to enter into the State High School Solo & Ensemble Festival.
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| Alexis and Megan (Flute and Clarinet) District S&E 2013 |
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| Kasey and Megan "Clarinetists" District S&E 2013 |
Have a Listen!!!!!
Megan and Kasey, District S&E, February 2013
(They sounded even better for State competition.......but I didn't record it!!)
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| The Warmup Room |
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| Warmup Room (I never saw a giant flute like this -- part of a flute ensemble that sounded awesome!) |
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| MSBOA State Solo & Ensemble Festival March 2013 |
This past weekend was the State competition. These girls have such busy schedules, it is hard for them to find the time to practice. I was not at all sure they had done enough of it before this competition. However, they surprised me and came through with "I" ratings again at the State level!!!
Hooray for music!!
5 comments:
Congrats to Megan :)
I love that she is following in your footsteps! Ash hasn't shown any interest in playing an instrument, and that totally bums me out.
That's amazing!!!! Great job M!!
Ramblings of a Suburban Mom
Wow, Megan that was great. Congratulations!!
It's fun to have a mini-me! She's really good! Congrats!
Beautiful musicians!
Today I am rejoicing that the tomb was empty. Wishing you and yours a very Happy Easter!
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