On March 31st, 62 band students and 9 orchestra students traveled to Chicago, Illinois to compete in the Festival of Music Competition at Harper College. After performing a dynamic program for the judges, the Carlsbad HS Band under the direction of Peter Manzi received a Superior rating and first place in Concert Band Division AA. The Carlsbad String Ensemble under the direction of Jessica Allen received a Excellent rating and first place in Orchestra Division AA.
After all the scores were tallied, the Carlsbad High School Symphonic Winds received the William Revelli Festival Champion Award for receiving the highest score at the days competition. The Carlsbad Band received a 91.5 combined average score from the judges. Additionally the band received the coveted Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser Esprit De Corps Award. The Esprit de Corps Award recognizes the participating organization that displays an exemplary attitude of positive support and outstanding personal behavior throughout the festival weekend. Personal integrity, quality character values, a desire for excellence, and a spirit of cooperation serve as the cornerstone qualities of the Esprit de Corps Award.
Other activities the band and orchestra participated in while touring Chicago were
*Participated in a clinic with professors at VanderCook College of Music
*Performed a showcase Concert at United Methodist Church of New Lenox
*Attended a Performance of Blue Man Group
*Toured the many buildings in Chicago as well as an architecture tour down the Chicago River
*Visited many of the world class museums (Science & Industry & Art Museum)
CHS Band on Stage at Harper College in the Festival of Music Competition
CHS Band at VanderCook College of Music Clinic with Stacey Dolan
CHS Band and Orchestra in front of Cloud Gate (the bean)
CHS Band and Orchestra in front of the Chicago Water Tower
