Aurora students perform in Kent State honors band

Students Ashley Jurcago (flute), Johnny Kushan (trumpet), MaRye Ray (flute), and Abby Toth (percussion) were recently selected for the for the Kent State honors band. The Kent State All Star Band is an honor band opportunity with 175 high school students.

Aurora’s band teacher, Lindsey Draime states, “From 350+ students nominated by area band directors, only 150 are selected based on their musical aptitude, service to their band program, and their future goals. To have a student accepted is an honor, but to have four accepted is unique and a testament to their abilities.”

This band brings the students to campus for a fun, but rigorous two day learning opportunity for music making. Band directors nominate students around the area, and they are chosen to participate in the 75 member honors wind symphony, or the 100 member honors symphony band. The special guest conductor for the 2019 wind symphony was Dr. Matthew Luttrell, who worked at Midwestern State University as a conductor.

The honors band met on January 18th for a day of rehearsals, then performed a concert on January 19 at Kent State University. Draime says, “ The experience allowed for exposure to collegiate music instructors and conductors, and an elevated level of music literature.”

Band is a great way to be involved in the community and symphonic band is a significant part of each of these students lives.

Senior Marye Ray states, “I’ve done band for 8 years and what I enjoy most about it is the diversity in the music and being able to demonstrate and showcase themes or popular topics through music, I also like the family aspect that comes along with marching band season and band camp.”

Senior Johnny Kushan states, “The symphonic band is a great opportunity for higher level players to create more difficult music, there are after school practices and even competitions we are required to attend. The environment of this band is exactly the place one would want to make music.”

Honors band is a great opportunity, allowing for students to increase their previous knowledge, gain experience at a college level, and meet other band students from around the area.