Sycamore Music Boosters
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News from around the square...
March 9, 2012
NUMEROUS SYCAMORE MUSIC STUDENTS GIVE “BEST OF DAY” PERFORMANCES AT SOLO & ENSEMBLE EVENT
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Sycamore High School
music students recently performed at the annual Solo and Ensemble event held
this year in Harvard. Musicians in
orchestra, band, and/or choir had the opportunity to perform a solo, usually with
piano accompaniment, or in various ensembles in front of a judge. Performers receive
a performance rating of Division I (the highest rating), II, III, IV, and V. At the end of the day, each judge
chooses one stand out performance and selects a “Best of Day” performance. Of a total of 16 “Best of Day” performances,
8 Sycamore performances were awarded this high honor! Congratulations to the
following Sycamore High School Solo & Ensemble “Best of Day” Award
recipients: Haley Tyrrell for a vocal solo; Kiah Fischer for a vocal solo; Kiah
Fischer, Kaytie Rivkin, Kayla Gin, Taylor Kloster, Jessica Wilson, and Jay
Ibarra for a vocal ensemble; Erica Nielsen for a piano solo; Joey Thompson for
a trombone solo; Dana Atkins for tenor saxophone solo; Lydia Moore for string
bass solo; and Erica Nielsen for a violin solo. The Sycamore High School Music Department has
placed in the top 10 of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Music
sweepstakes awards in their class for 7 of the past 8 years, and a primary
component of this success is having experience with solos and ensembles. Scott Mertens, Sycamore Music Department
Chair, comments, "These awards reflect the dedication and excellence of
these students. Our music students are
setting a high level of self-expectation, and it is nice to see them receive
these accolades. Their attention to detail, their individual accountability,
and their demonstrated ability to perform under pressure will serve them well
in music and in other areas as well." Participating in the Solo and Ensemble event
is a great way for music students to challenge themselves. Their goal is to prepare, practice, perform a
piece well, and to have fun! Family, friends and fellow musicians are
encouraged to attend performances as it is a fantastic way to listen to many
top high school musicians in our area. Congratulations to all Solo &
Ensemble participants and those that received “Best of
Day” performance awards. |
February 16, 2012
A Note to Remember Event a Tremendous Success
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The 4th Annual Sycamore Music
Boosters “A Note to Remember” event recently held at Blumen Gardens was a huge
success. Guests attended a sold-out
elegant evening of jazz and classical music including delicious hors d’oeuvres
and dessert buffet, and numerous raffle baskets and silent auction items. Featured musical guests were the Ronald
Carter Jazz Quartet including Northern Illinois University’s Professor of Music
Ronald Carter on saxophone and clarinet, his son Bryan Carter on drums, Joel
Kelsey on bass, and guitarist Larry Brown.
The quartet jammed for a solid hour filling the venue with fantastic
music. Professor Carter comments, “The most exciting part [of the performance]
was getting an opportunity to perform with my children and also for the
community that I live and pay taxes in to see me in a different situation other
than directing the NIU Jazz Ensemble.”
Bryan Carter, a Sycamore High School graduate and
currently enrolled at the Julliard School in New York City, was a special guest
in the Jazz Quartet. While speaking to
the audience in between numbers, Bryan mentioned he was excited to be back in
Sycamore and comments, “One of the best things about the Sycamore Music
Department is how they taught me so much about music and improved my music
education. This program is in place so your son or daughter can learn music and
perform a song for their mom!” Bryan
then dedicated their next number, “At The Crack of Dawn” to his mother, Linda
Carter, sitting in the audience.
Demetria Carter, Ron’s daughter, also joined the
stage as vocalist and performed a few numbers with the group. Demetria is a senior at the Sycamore High
School and is also a member of the High School Jazz Band as a vocalist. Ron Carter comments, “It is always a gift
from God to get an opportunity to perform and interact with my children on
stage. They are so talented and seem to
rise to every occasion.”
The evening was filled with brilliant music. Additional performers included the Sycamore
High School Jazz Ensemble, Sycamore High School String Quintet, Sycamore High
School Jazz Choir, Sycamore residents Craig and Hanna Mathey, and the NIU
Graduate Brass Quintet.
Each year the event grows in popularity with another sold-out
event this year. “A Note to Remember”
raises support for the Sycamore District Music Programs and is sponsored by the
Sycamore Music Boosters. The Boosters
program strives to support every student enrolled in any music program in our
district from Kindergarten through post-graduation. Their mission statement is
to “Enrich the quality of music education, performance, and awareness in the
Sycamore Schools and community.”
Sycamore Music Department Chair Scott Mertens
mentions, “The best part of this event is seeing the student’s reactions and
excitement knowing they gave a fantastic performance. It is an exciting opportunity for them to be
a part of this musical event. They will
walk away with confidence of a great performance and a wonderful life experience
with memories that will last a very long time.”
Ron Carter also reflected on the evening stating, “It was also great to
see the entire community come out and support the arts in such a large
number. Hopefully due to budgets getting
smaller, Sycamore will maintain its support and value of the Arts in our
children’s education.”
Lori Grant, A Note to Remember Chair, noted, “The
night was a great success! Our performers were spectacular, and it was a
pleasure working with so many wonderful volunteers in support of Sycamore's
music program. This community has always been exceptional in its support
of schools and kids, and I am especially grateful for the numerous local
businesses who gave so generously in support of this event."
It is with deep gratitude that the Sycamore Music
Boosters thank all sponsors and donors that helped support this event and made
it so successful. This event’s sponsors
included the Illinois Community Credit Union, the National Bank & Trust
Company, Ideal Industries, Oral and Maxillo Facial Surgeons- Dr. Todd Anderson
and Dr. David Junck, DDS, Austin’s Violin Shop, Northern Rehab, Prairie View
Animal Hospital, the Suter Company, the American Midwest Bank, Citizens for
Sean P. Smith State’s Attorney, Dr. Todd Curtis, Orthodontist, Law Office of
Richard L. Turner, and Sycamore Fraternal Order of the Police.
If you missed this event, the
Bryan Carter Quintet from New York, NY, will be performing at the House Cafe in
DeKalb on April 3, 2012 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10.00 and may be purchased at
the Sycamore High School office, DeKalb High School office, the House Cafe, or
calling 815-540-8809.
February 13, 2012
SYCAMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT ATTENDS PRESTIGIOUS ALL-STATE IMEA CONFERENCE
SYCAMORE
– Seventeen Sycamore High School students were selected to participate in the
2012 Illinois Music Education Conference (formerly the IMEA All-State
Conference) recently held at the Peoria Civic Center in Peoria, Illinois. This
is the third time Sycamore High School has been represented at the prestigious
All-State Conference! Students were
selected via an audition score from the district festival held earlier this
year. Illinois has 9 districts throughout the state, and each district was able
to send their top students to be represented at this All-State Conference. Students, staff, and families spent a long
weekend in Peoria in various rehearsals until their performance on
Saturday. Chamber Orchestra students
were also selected via a submitted audition tape to perform a concert during
the conference. The Chamber Orchestra
also had the honor of listening to the All-State Ensemble rehearse as well as
performances by St. Charles East Orchestra/Choir and the University of Illinois
Symphony Orchestra.
This
conference offers impressive performances and experience for these accomplished
musicians in the Honors Band and Honors Orchestra, the highest level of
performance, and the All-State Ensemble. Students from Sycamore High School who
have the prestigious honor of being selected for All-State include:
Honors
Band: Dana Atkins, tenor saxophone. Of
the high school musicians selected for this All State Conference, Dana is
ranked the number one tenor sax in the state.
Honors Orchestra: Aaron Brancato, cello; Sarah Grant, double bass;
Lydia Moore, double bass; and Owen Ruff, violin.
All-State Ensemble: Erica Nielsen,
violin; Danielle Pivonka, violin; Alyssa Gregorec, viola; Rebecca Vidales,
viola; Henry Weberpal, cello; Paige Phelps, cello; Micah Huff, jazz trumpet; Marie
Brzezinski, clarinet; Will Olson, French horn; Caitlin Sherman, French horn;
Joey Thompson, trombone; and Taylor Kloster, soprano.
Ken Tonaki, High School Orchestra
Director, comments, “My best experience at All-State is to reflect with the
students on their All-State experience.
It is amazing to see their maturity develop as musicians and as people
just over three days at the conference.”
February 2, 2012
Sycamore Jazz Band performs at The House
The Sycamore High School Jazz
Band recently was invited to perform at The House in DeKalb. Directed by
Sycamore Music Department Chair Scott Mertens, they performed works by Duke
Ellington, Thad Jones, and Roy Hargrove. This talented jazz band will be performing
next at the annual Note To Remember fundraiser hosted by the Sycamore Music
Boosters on February 11. This adult only
event will be held at Blumen Gardens from 7-11pm. Limited tickets are available
for $20.00 per person and may be purchased by contacting Jennifer Ruff at
815.899.3466 / E-Mail: Note2Remember@gmail.com.
January 27, 2012
Sycamore Music Boosters Initiate Music Mentors Program
Sycamore Music Boosters
recently started a new “Music Mentors” program for parents of students
participating in the Sycamore Music Program with the goal of providing educational
and mentoring opportunities for parents. An informal discussion or “Parent Pep
Talk” was held prior to each elementary concert with topics including the
benefits and challenges of participation in the music program, practicing
strategies, and question and answer time. Pictured here (right to left) are
guest speakers General Music Teacher Kristine Mertens talking to “Pep Talk”
participants, with Sycamore Music Boosters President Ken Olson and parent Bob
Atkins. The Sycamore Music Boosters is a group of volunteer parents, families
and friends of students aged Kindergarten through 12th grade
enrolled in music education classes in Sycamore schools.
January 9, 2012
Ronald Carter Quartet Headlines 4th
Annual Sycamore “Note To Remember” Event
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| Ron Carter | Bryan Carter | Hanna and Craig Mathey |
On Saturday,
February 11, 2012, the Sycamore Music Boosters proudly welcomes the Ronald
Carter Quartet with special guest Bryan Carter as they host its fourth annual
night of jazz and classical music entitled “A Note to Remember” from 7:00pm –
11:00pm at Blumen Gardens in Sycamore. The event will feature the highly
acclaimed Ronald Carter Quartet with his son, Bryan Carter, Craig and Hanna Mathey,
the Sycamore High School Jazz Ensemble, and other school ensembles of the
Sycamore music program. An elegant,
sweet and savory hors d’oeuvres buffet and coffee bar will be included along
with a raffle and silent auction of over 50 gifts and prizes generously donated
by local businesses.
Ronald Carter is currently a Professor of
Music at Northern Illinois University and serves as Director of the Jazz
Studies Program and Director of the NIU Jazz Ensemble. Carter has additionally presented
workshops as guest conductor, artist, clinician, and adjudicator for various
universities across America and has directed All State Jazz Bands in 20
different states. Ron has professionally
performed with Clark Terry, Lou Rawls, Frank Mantooth, the Jimmy Dorsey Band,
and many others; and he has recently performed in Bogota, Columbia at the “Jazz
in the Paques” Jazz Festival and with Paquito D’Rivera at the Detroit
International Jazz Festival. His list of honors is extensive and includes
Downbeat Magazine’s Hall of Fame, the 1991 Milken National Distinguished
Educator Award, Jazz Unites – Chicago “We Love You Madly” Jazz Award, and NIU
Board of Trustees Professorship Award.
Bryan Carter, Ron’s son, currently
attends the prestigious Julliard School in New York City, and has already begun
his career with regular performances across the United States and abroad. Bryan
developed a passion for music at the early age of three beginning on the drums,
and by age eleven had already studied with various jazz masters. During high school, Bryan was accepted to the
prestigious Brubeck Summer Jazz Colony, the Vail Jazz Workshop, and the Grammy
Jazz Ensemble. As a new artist, these
outlets lead to national and international venues including the Jazz Bistro,
Dizzy’s Coca-Cola Club, The Vic, the Chicago Jazz Festival, the Lima Peru Jazz
Festival and many others. Additionally,
he has played with artists including Clark Terry, Jon Faddis, Ted Nash, McCoy
Tyner and numerous other artists. Furthermore, the Bryan Carter Quintet
recently released its first CD titled, “Enchantment”.
Also performing together will be
family duo Craig and Hanna Mathey.
Craig, a life-long resident of Sycamore, has been a musician since age
ten. He began with accordion lessons,
eventually taught himself to play piano and keyboards, and at eighteen joined a
pop/country/wedding band until the mid-80s, then formed a duo that performed
throughout the area for eight years.
Currently, Craig may be heard singing and playing piano Friday nights at
Villa Verone in Sycamore. Craig worked as a brick mason in the family business
for 32 years and now currently works as a Business Development Officer for the
National Bank & Trust Company of Sycamore.
Hanna Mathey, a 2001 Sycamore
Graduate, states music has always been a part of her life. She received classical music training via the
Suzuki violin method and learned contemporary music with her father,
Craig. Hanna received her Bachelor of Music
in Music Education with the viola from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at
Roosevelt University in 2005. She
currently teaches elementary music for the Chicago Public Schools. Hanna continues to play a wide variety of
music with Back Country Roads Band, the Morgan Park Presbyterian Church Praise
Band, and with various other Chicagoland musicians. Craig and Hanna Mathey can be found
performing together at various charitable, fundraising, special events, and
weddings in the area.
Tickets are required for this adult
only community event and are $20 per person which includes musical
entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and dessert, coffee bar, raffle and silent
auction. A cash bar will also be
available. Tickets are available now to
purchase at the Sycamore High School Main Office or by contacting Jennifer Ruff
at 815-899-3466 or via E-mail at Note2Remember@gmail.com.
Please visit our web site at www.sycamoremusicboosters.com
for more information. The Sycamore Music Boosters is a group of families and
friends of students enrolled in music education classes in Sycamore
Schools. This fundraiser will aid in the purchase of instruments,
uniforms, and scholarships for Sycamore’s talented musicians.
December 12, 2011
The annual Sycamore Music Boosters Autumn Craft and Treasures Market event held this fall was a huge success. It is with deep gratitude that we express a note of thanks to all of our parents, student and staff volunteers, vendors, and the community attendees who participated and supported this event. We also extend appreciation to the Sycamore School District 427, Suter Company, Shawn’s, Country Market & Catering, Browns County Market, and Sycamore Park District. The funds raised will help support all students in the music program through scholarships, music camps, equipment purchases, music education, and more.
With sincere gratitude,
Karen Huff
Sycamore Music Boosters
Autumn Craft and Treasures Market General Event Chair
November 30, 2011
Congratulations
2012 IMEA All-State Selectees!!!
| Dana Atkins | Tenor Sax |
| Aaron Brancato | Cello |
| Marie Brzezinski | Clarinet |
| Sarah Grant | Double Bass |
| Alyssa Gregorec | Viola |
| Taylor Kloster | Soprano |
| Lydia Moore | Double Bass |
| Erica Nielsen | Violin |
| Will Olson | French Horn |
| Paige Phelps | Cello |
| Danielle Pivonka | Violin |
| Owen Ruff | Violin |
| Caitlin Sherman | French Horn |
| Joey Thompson | Trombone |
| Rebecca Vidales | Viola |
| Henry Weberpal | Cello |
SYCAMORE – Forty high school and forty-seven middle school students from the Sycamore School District were selected to participate in the 2011 Illinois Music Educators Association (IMEA) All-District Orchestras, All-District Bands, and All-District Choirs.
Students who made All-District groups performed IMEA-selected music for judges in competitive auditions in October that are tightly regulated by the IMEA. The students who were selected spent one day in November in rehearsals, culminating in performances on the same day. This year, the All-District Band and Choir festivals were held on Saturday, November 19 at DeKalb High School. The All-District Jazz festival was held at Hononegah High School on Saturday, November 12, and the All-District Orchestra festival was held on November 12 at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois.
Students from Sycamore High School who have been selected for the IMEA All-District festivals include:
HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA:Violin - Katharine Denius, Erica Nielsen, Isaac Parra, Danielle Pivonka, Owen Ruff, Caitlin Sherman, Miranda Van Wienen; Viola - Katherine Barresi, Trent Englum, Alyssa Gregorec, Rebecca Vidales; Cello - Aaron Brancato, Paige Phelps, Henry Weberpal; Bass - Sarah Grant, Lydia Moore; French Horn – Will Olson; Trumpet – Marcus Dominguez.
HIGH SCHOOL BAND: Flute – Ashlyn Gardner; Clarinet – Marie Brzezinski; Alto Saxophone – Leah Tabone; Tenor Saxophone – Dana Atkins; Trumpet – Micah Huff; French Horn—Caitlin Sherman, Jordyn Shultz; Trombone – Joey Thompson, Jessica Howland.
HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR: Soprano –Kiah Fischer, Taylor Kloster, Emily Flower, Elizabeth Watson; Alto –Kaytie Rivkin; Tenor – Ian Lovell; Bass – Dustin King.
HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ BAND: Trumpet – Micah Huff; Trombone – Casey Bunge, Joey Thompson; Piano – Elizabeth Watson; Bass – Seth Kates; Drum Set – Scot Bishop.
Students from Sycamore Middle School who have been selected for IMEA include:
MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA: Violin – David Boyer, Hannah Cerny, Ashley Curtin, Kayla Doyle, Lauryn Gregorec, Valerie Hunt, Jessica Luo, Milica Milovancevich, Jessica Park, Sydney Parra, Jacob Parra, Angelina Ye; Viola – Jackie Cole, Emma Dodson, Sarah Frankovich, Kailey Mulligan, Ryan Piloni; Cello – Kjelden Breidenbach, Sarah Cerny, Brian Dardon, Colleen Dow, Mary Flaherty, Dana Nielsen, Miranda Perri, Katie Streicher, A.J. Vidales; Bass – Brett Brancato, Evan Jacobs.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND: Flute – Megan Graham, Alyssa Meier; Clarinet – Alex Cuthbert; Bassoon – Rachel Hecht; Oboe – Emma Olson; French Horn – Andrew Selig, Bret Reser; Trumpet – Benjamin Van Wienen, Olivia Lohse; Alto Saxophone – Gracia Watson; Baritone Saxophone – Efrain Aguirre; Trombone – Ella Rose Atkins; Baritone – Hunter Thomas.
MIDDLE SCHOOL JAZZ BAND: Alto Saxophone – Gracia Watson; Tenor Sax – Rachel Hecht; Baritone Saxophone – Efrain Aguirre; Trumpet – Benjamin Van Wienen; Trombone – Ella Rose Atkins; Piano – Emma Olson.
November 18, 2011
Boy Scout Collecting Unwanted Instruments For Eagle Project
Kevin Loitz, a Sycamore High School student and Life Scout with BSA Troop 2810 chartered by Salem Lutheran Church in Sycamore, is currently working on his Eagle Scout Project. This venture titled, “Instruments for Children” entails collecting unwanted or unused musical instruments, cleaning and repairing each instrument as needed, and then donating all refurbished instruments to the Sycamore School District Music Department for the specific purpose of loaning them to music students that cannot afford to rent or purchase an instrument.
All types of band and orchestra instruments may be donated including strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Instruments that need repair will also be accepted. Those instruments will be refurbished using financial donations and/or donation of time and talent. Arrangements will be made to pick up donated instruments and a community drop off date and location is still being organized for February or March. Watch for more information to come!
Kevin comments, “I am passionate about music. I wanted to help give students the opportunity to be able to learn music and the enjoyment of playing an instrument. In today’s economy, some families just can’t afford to rent an instrument, so I want to be able to provide this chance for everyone to have the benefits of music.”
The community is encouraged to help in this project. You may donate an instrument or make a monetary donation to assist with the cost of repairing these instruments. Additionally, a person, family or business may “Sponsor” an instrument – with a $250 donation, the money will be used to repair one or more instruments depending on the damage and cost, and they will receive recognition as a sponsor on a small plaque that will be attached to the instrument case. Kevin is currently accepting donations now. He mentions, “My goal is to collect all instruments by spring 2012 and to complete the project by donating instruments to the Sycamore Music Department by next fall of 2012.”
Anyone interested in donating an instrument, making a contribution, volunteering your time or talent on this project or needing more information may contact Kevin Loitz at 815.991.1101 or via E-mail at Instrumentsforchildren@gmail.com.
October 29th-30th
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| Mr Pumpkin, Wally Thurow, helps our volunteers sell pies at the Autumn Craft and Treasures Market |
September 18th, 2011
 | SYCAMORE MUSIC BOOSTERS AWARD CONTINUING COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP |
Sycamore Music Boosters is
pleased to announce the winner of their annual Continuing College Music
Scholarship to Jessica Aldis. This
scholarship award is designed to assist Sycamore High School graduates in
continuing their music education in college. Ms. Aldis is awarded this
scholarship in recognition of her outstanding musicianship, music and academic
achievements, and overall participation in music.
Jessica Aldis, a Sycamore High School graduate, is in
her senior year at Augustana College as a Music Major focusing in Vocal
Education. She has been highly involved
in various choral ensembles and groups including a member of the Augustana
Choir, the Chamber Singers, and the Handel Oratorio Society. Additionally, she has served as a section
leader for the Broadway Presbyterian Church and the Alto in the St. Paul’s
Lutheran Church Quartet.
Jessica is a member of Music Educators National
Conference (MENC) and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), and has
participated as a member of the IMEA All-State in Peoria, IL. She has previously been awarded the Presser
and the Alan Schaefer scholarships. Additionally,
she has been on the Dean’s List each semester while studying at Augustana
College.
This year Jessica will be a section leader in the
Augustana Choir, music librarian, the newly elected Augustana Choir President,
and will begin student teaching. Jessica
was thrilled to receive this scholarship and comments, ““As a future music
educator I hope to share my passion for music with students, inspiring them to
create and experience music in ways which are meaningful to them."
May 31st, 2011
THE SYCAMORE MUSIC BOOSTERS ARE PROUD TO
ANNOUNCE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2011 SUMMER MUSIC CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS:
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Illinois Summer Youth Music (University
of Illinois): Kaytie Rivkin
Lizzie Briscoe Paige Phelps
Danielle Pivonka McKinzie Spence Sarah Grant Kendryck Rand Emily Rader Emma Olson
Gracia
Watson Drew Moulton Elizabeth
Rader Elizabeth Watson University of Wisconsin-Whitewater: Ashlyn Belle Gardner Kathleen Hancock Tyler Berger
Andrew
Selig Illinois State University: Gabriella Atkins Baylee Moon Eastern Illinois University: Lauren Brazeau Birch Creek Music Performance Center: Micah Huff Aaron Brancato Meadowmount School of Music: Owen Ruff Northern Illinois University Jazz Camp: Taylor Brady – John O. Weaver Scholarship
Recipient Daniel Hancock Shell Lake Arts Center: Marcus Dominguez FJM Drum Major Clinic: Dana Atkins – Drum Major Scholarship
Recipient Broadway Music Theatre Project: Kiah Fischer |
Dorian Music Camp-Luther College: Brian Dardon Benjamin Van Wienen Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp: Miranda Van Wienen Angelina Ye Colleen Dow Charlotte Simpson Erica Nielsen Susan Starrett Strings Camp: Isaac Parra Katie Denius Western Illinois University Summer Music
Institute: Rebecca Vidales Amanda Vidales Interlochen
Summer Arts Camp: Henry Weberpal Chicago Suzuki Institute : Kate Barresi Northern Illinois University String Chamber Camp: Kalahn Wade
Sarah Cerny Ambyr Siebens A.J. Vidales Brett Brancato Kailey Mulligan Logan Gehant Miranda Perri Valerie Hunt
Jessica Luo Hannah Cerny Kayla Doyle Northern Illinois University Opera Camp:
Emani
Brinkman Calibus Wade |
 | Lucy Wrenn from Sycamore High School Named to MENC 2011 All-National Honor Ensembles |
Local Student One of 330 Selected to Perform in Nation’s
Most Prestigious Student Music Ensembles June 26 in Washington DC
Lucy, a vocalist, became heavily involved with choir during middle school,
where she also began to participate in the school musical every year. In high school, Lucy has acted in every
school theatre production as well as been a part of the Madrigal Troupe and
Jazz Choir. Lucy has performed with all
three of the high school’s choirs and has been selected for the NI Big 12
Conference Choir, IMEA District Choir and IMEA All-State Choir during her time
at the high school. She has also
received numerous superior honors at the annual Solo and Ensemble Competition,
a Best of Day performance and, most recently, has received the prestigious
National School Choir Award. Beyond music, Lucy has also been involved in Cheerleading,
Soccer, Lil Sis/Big Sis, Student Ambassadors, National Honors Society, Drama
Club, Key Club, French Club, to list a few.
As an aspiring music educator, Lucy is incredibly excited to participate
in the All-National Choir!
MENC
established its National Honor Ensembles as the ultimate recognition of music
student performance, beyond state and divisional levels. “We are very pleased
to offer this unique performance opportunity to a very select group of our
nation's finest high school musicians,” said David Weatherred, MENC Northwest
Division past-president and chair of the All-National Honor Ensembles. “Over
the course of four days, these top flight musicians will rehearse
with marvelous and inspirational conductors, leading up to an exceptional
finale performance on June 26. The 2011
MENC All-National Honor Ensembles will most surely be a once in a lifetime
musical experience for these incredible high school musicians!”
The complete list of students is available online at www.mencevents.org
For more information call 1-800-479-8247or visit www.mencevents.org/menceventshonorspage.htm
MENC: The National Association for Music Education, among the world's largest arts education
organizations, marked its centennial in 2007 as the only association that
addresses all aspects of music education. Through membership of more than
75,000 active, retired, and pre-service music teachers, and with 60,000 honor
students and supporters, MENC serves millions of students nationwide through
activities at all teaching levels, from preschool to graduate school. MENC's
mission is to advance music education by encouraging the study and making of
music by all. Since 1907, MENC has worked to ensure that every student has
access to a well-balanced, comprehensive, and high-quality program of music
instruction taught by qualified teachers. MENC's activities and resources have
been largely responsible for the establishment of music education as a
profession, for the promotion and guidance of music study as an integral part
of the school curriculum, and for the development of the National Standards for
Arts Education. MENC is located at the National Center for Music Education in
Reston, VA.
Follow MENC on Twitter (twitter.com/menc) and on Facebook
(facebook.com/menc.org).
SHS musicians attend symposium
SYCAMORE – Two string quartets from Sycamore High School attended the prestigious University of Illinois Chamber Music Symposium on April 15 and 16. Sycamore was one of only six Illinois schools, representing 10 ensembles, accepted to attend the workshop.
For more of this story, click on or type the URL below:
http://www.midweeknews.com/articles/2011/05/10/43872963/index.xml
February 3rd, 2011
4 of 6 NIU talent scholarship winners are Sycamore students
Robert Carpenter, Baylie Petit, Owen Ruff and Aaron Brancato are selected to receive a $250 prize.
They will perform February 5th at the Honors Recital.
click here for the NIU CSA story
December 13, 2010
SHS TO SEND A RECORD OF 24 STUDENTS TO MUSIC ALL-STATE
SYCAMORE - Sycamore High School and the Department of Music are pleased to announce that twenty-four instrumental
and vocal students have been selected to attend the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State Conference in
Peoria in January, 2011. According to Music Department Chair Scott Mertens, this is the largest group of music
students from Sycamore High School to be selected for IMEA All-State in one given year. In addition, this is the
third consecutive year that SHS has been one of the top four schools for sending the most students to All-State
from any single school in the state of Illinois.
Mertens explains that this is very impressive, given the highly competitive and rigorous nature of the audition
process for All-State. "The students performed live auditions in front of judges for their respective district
festivals in band, choir, orchestra and jazz band, and competed with all other students for chair placements. The
students with top chair placements or performances at the district festivals were then selected from among many
deserving individuals for All-State." The students attending IMEA All-State represent the top tier of music
students from around the state.
After arriving at the All-State festival, students audition again for placement in the state groups, and they
are placed in either the all-state or honors ensembles. The rehearsals, over two days, culminate in performances
of jazz bands on Friday night, and orchestras, choirs and concert bands on Saturday afternoon. Mertens noted,
"We are extremely proud of our students and we know they will represent our school district and our department
very well."
The SHS students attending IMEA this year include: ORCHESTRA - Aaron Brancato, Alyssa Gregorec, Samantha
Kevin, Lydia Moore, Isaac Parra, Paige Phelps, Danielle Pivonka, Corinne Ruff, Owen Ruff, Caitlin Sherman, Henry
Weberpal; ORCHESTRA WINDS - Leif Anderson, Will Olson; CHOIR - Veronica Behrens, Evan Bross, Kiah Fischer, Nicole
Hanson, Taylor Kloster, Lucy Wrenn; BAND - Dana Atkins, Joey Thompson, Marie Brzezinski; JAZZ BAND - Matthew Larks,
Micah Huff.
December 1, 2010
IMEA State Participants
The Sycamore High School Music Department has a record 24 members
that have selected for the upcoming Illinois All-State Music Conference. This conference will be held January 26-29
in Peoria, and these students will be departing after school on Wednesday, January 26.
The students are:
Choir: Veronica Behrens, Evan Bross, Kiah Fischer, Nicole Hanson, Taylor Kloster, Lucy Wrenn
Band: Dana Atkins, Joey Thompson, Marie Brzezinski
Orchestra Winds: Leif Anderson, Will Olson
Jazz Band: Micah Huff, Matthew Larks
Orchestra: Aaron Brancato, Alyssa Gregoric, Samantha Kevin, Lydia Moore, Isaac Parra, Paige Phelps, Danielle Pivonka,
Corinne Ruff, Owen Ruff, Caitlin Sherman, Henry Weberpal
Sycamore will have one of the largest contingents of All-State students in the state, and it may well be the largest.
Congratulations to our students for achieving this high honor, and we look forward to their continued successes.
Scott Mertens
October 23rd, 2010
SYCAMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCES
91 IMEA ALL-DISTRICT MUSICIANS
SYCAMORE - Sixty-four high school and twenty-seven middle school students from the Sycamore School District have
been selected to participate in the 2010 Illinois Music Educators Association(IMEA) All-District Orchestras, All-District
Bands and All-District Choirs.
Students who made All-District groups performed IMEA-selected music for judges in competitive auditions in October
that are tightly regulated by the IMEA. The students who were selected will spend one day in November in rehearsals,
culminating in performances on the same day. This year, the All-District Band, Choir, and Orchestra Festivals will
be held on Saturday, November 20 at Northern Illinois University. The All-District Jazz Festival will be held at
Hononegah High School on Saturday, November 13 with the jazz performances beginning at 4:00 p.m.
Students from Sycamore High School who have been selected for IMEA include:
HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA:
Violin - Katharine Denius, Erica Nielsen, Isaac Parra, Danielle Pivonka, Corinne Ruff, Owen Ruff, Caitlin Sherman,
Miranda Van Wienen; Viola - Katherine Barresi, Alyssa Gregoric, Samantha Kevin, Rebecca Vidales; Cello - Aaron
Brancato, Maggie Lalowski, Paige Phelps, Justin Vitkus, Henry Weberpal; Bass - Sarah Grant, Lydia Moore; French
Horn - Will Olson; Trombone - Leif Anderson.
HIGH SCHOOL BAND:
Flute - Ashlyn Gardner, Nicolette Thu; Clarinet - Marie Brzezinski; Alto Saxophone - Taylor Brady; Tenor Saxophone
- Dana Atkins; Trumpet - Marcus Dominguez; Trombone - Joey Thompson; Percussion - Scot Bishop, Matt Maillefer.
HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR:
Soprano - Veronica Behrens, Kiah Fischer, Sara Diemer, Lucy Halliwell-Smith, Taylor Kloster; Alto - Alison Buick,
Kaytie Rivkin; Nicole Hanson, Tiffany Kuo, Lucy Wrenn; Tenor - Dominic Johnson, Dustin King, Connor Qualls; Bass
- Evan Bross.
JUNIOR MIXED CHORUS:
Baritone - Alex Riley.
HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ BAND:
Alto Saxophone - Taylor Brady; Tenor Saxophone - Dana Atkins; Trumpet - Micah Huff, Alec Nauman; Trombone - Leif
Anderson, Joey Thompson; Guitar - Matthew Larks.
Students from Sycamore Middle School who have been selected for IMEA include:
MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA:
Violin - David Boyer, Hannah Cerny, Katie Cuthbert, Avery Dahlquist, Alexis Divita, Kayla Doyle, Cameron Godinsky,
Mattie Hayes, Valerie Hunt, Anna Kloosterman, Jessica Luo, Milica Milovancevich, Jessica Park, Maddie Pawola, Alex
Tritt, Angelina Ye; Viola - Jackie Cole, Kailey Mulligan, Corrin Neises, Nathan Wilkin; Cello - Mary Flaherty,
Kevin Loitz, Miranda Perri, Baylie Petit; Bass - Seth Kates.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND:
Clarinet - Emily Egerman, Emily Rader; Bass Clarinet - Kacy Brzezinski; Bassoon - Rachel Hecht; Oboe - Emma Olson;
French Horn - Andrew Selig, Jordyn Shultz; Trumpet - Benjamin Van Wienen; Alto Saxophone - Gracia Watson.
MIDDLE SCHOOL JAZZ BAND:
Alto Saxophone - Gracia Watson; Trumpet - Benjamin Van Wienen; Trombone - Ella Rose Atkins, Matthew Johnson; Bass
- Seth Kates.
October 15th, 2010
SYCAMORE MARCHING SPARTANS SCORE BIG AT CONTEST
Sycamore, IL - As soon as the Sycamore High School Marching Spartans
finished their performance at the Marengo Settlers Days Marching Band Competition, the band's director Ken Goodman,
knew they had done well. "The audience got very excited," he remarked.
At the end of three days of marching and competitions, the SHS Marching Spartans finished the field competition
on Sunday, October 10, with best of show in four of six categories and an overall 2nd place win in Class AA Competition.
The Marching Spartans won "Best Brass," "Best Woodwinds," "Best Percussion," and
"Best Drum Major" with their show titled "Flashback" which includes popular songs from the
70's and 80's including "Bohemian Rhapsody," "Rockin' the Paradise," "Open Arms,"
and "My Life." Their performance features solos by Caitlin Sherman-mellophone, Leif Anderson-trombone,
Alec Nauman-trumpet, and Micah Huff-trumpet.
When asked about the Spartans' performance, Goodman remarked that the SHS musicians definitely gave "100 percent
into a very exciting and solid performance."
Audiences will have an opportunity to hear the SHS Marching Spartans on Monday, October 25 at 7:30 p.m., when they
give their final performance of the 2010 season. They will perform all of their music from their 2010 field show,
and other popular pep band music. Their performance will be held in the Field House at Sycamore High School and
is open to the public. In addition, the Spartans will perform the entire field show at their final home football
game on October 22.
PHOTO: The section leaders of the SHS Marching Spartans display the 5 trophies won at the Marengo Settlers Day
Marching Competition. Back row from left: Dana Atkins, Jessica Pluhm, Scot Bishop Micah Huff, Luke Foresman, Leif
Anderson, Alec Nauman. Front row from left: Caitlin Sherman, Marie Brzezinski, Alyssa Skidmore, Ashlyn Gardner,
Joey Thompson-drum major, Kaitlyn King, Amanda Vidales, Xanthe Kuhn.
November 18th, 2009
SHS Madrigals
The Sycamore High School Madrigal Troupe
will present its 36th Annual Madrigal Dinners on December 4th & 5th at the Sycamore St. Mary's Activity Center.
Doors open at 6:00 pm and the show begins at 6:30 pm. Tickets are $22/person. The full Roast Beef dinner is catered
by the Hillside Restaurant. All seating is reserved. Saturday night ONLY has a limited number of "show only"
tickets available for $5/person. Please call 815-762-4648 to make your reservations.
Madrigal singing, brought to England from Italy in the 16th century, was at first an informal type of private entertainment
at the castle and country homes of the landed gentry. Frequently, the lords and ladies performed the music themselves
as they sat as dinner in the Great Hall. Naturally, during the twelve days of the Christmas season, there was much
entertaining and singing of Madrigals. The SHS Madrigal Troupe will reenact this royal Renaissance banquet as it
transforms the church meeting hall into an English castle, complete with a royal court, troubadours, jesters, beggars,
jugglers, pages and instrumentalists.
June 15, 2009
SYCAMORE HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT
OF MUSIC
SHS MUSICIANS WIN IHSA THIRD IN STATE!
Sycamore High School - After being named in 2008 as
one of the top music programs in the country by the National Association of Music Merchants, the Sycamore High
School Music Program once again demonstrated its excellence by winning third place in this year's IHSA statewide
competition.
The Sycamore High School music students and ensembles competed this year - as they do every year, in the IHSA Music
Sweepstakes. This year, Sycamore High School placed third in state in Class A competition - a first for the music
program at the high school.
When the music teachers heard the news, they were "ecstatic." According to Terri Goodman, Choir Director,
the scores had been added incorrectly and they originally thought they were in 4th place. When the correction was
made, IHSA didn't contact the high school. One of the music teachers discovered the news while looking at IHSA
information a week or so later.
Scott Mertens, Music Department Chair and Jazz Ensemble Director, explained that schools compete in the IHSA Music
Sweepstakes through two major events - the Solo and Ensemble Contest and the IHSA Organizational Contest. All students
and ensembles receive ratings for their performances. Schools that receive the most Division "1" ratings
(on a scale of one to five), receive more points in the competition. Simply put, the SHS students had a large number
of "1" ratings on solos and small and large ensemble performances in the competition.
Ken Goodman, Band Director, pointed out that seven of the eight music ensembles (band, choir, orchestra, jazz band)
that performed at organizational contest this year received Division I ratings - the highest rating possible.
For Ken Tonaki, Orchestra Director, the trophy is symbolic of the time and effort by the students to be successful
in a variety of music ensembles. "It shows that we have a balanced curriculum - the results have proven that
our jazz programs are equally as strong as our concert programs. This recognition showcases the hard work of the
students."
The music directors agree that the IHSA ranking brings the music students and program to the forefront in a way
that the community can understand. In addition, it shows the quality of the department on a statewide level. Mertens
said that it is particularly meaningful because all of the students in the music program at the high school contributed
to the third place victory. "It represents the high percentage of SHS students dedicated to quality music
and achieving this goal."
May 3, 2009
IHSA has announced that the Sycamore placed third in the 2009 Music Sweepstakes
for Class A schools. This was determined from the results of the Solo/Ensemble
and Organizational (larger ensemble) festivals our students participated in.
The standings can be seen at http://www.ihsa.org/activity/mu/2008-09/2result.htm.
This is our highest finish yet, and we will be receiving official
recognition from IHSA (a trophy). Hooray!
April 2, 2009
SHS Jazz Ensemble Takes Honors at Jazz Festival
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The Sycamore High School Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Scott
Mertens, brought home three awards from the Mundelein Jazz Invitational
on March 14. Sycamore High School placed a close second to Oak
Park-River Forest.
Jazz groups from 10 suburban high schools competed in the open class.
Sycamore was the second-smallest school to compete this year.
In addition, the SHS Jazz Ensemble*s trombone section received a
plaque as the *Outstanding Trombone Section,* and tenor saxophonist
Sam Simpson earned an *Outstanding Soloist* plaque.
The ensemble members include: trumpet * Kristian Kates, Will Mariani,
Jason Lundbeck, Micah Huff, Alec Naumann; trombone * Calob Pluhm, Leif
Anderson, Joey Thompson, Dominic Johnson, D.J. Yunek; saxophone * Sam
Simpson, Ian Kates, Joey Larkin, Dana Atkins, Xanthe Kuhn; piano *
Nathaniel VanWienen; guitar * Matthew Larks; string bass * Greg
Heintz, Sho Ishimaru; drum set * Scot Bishop.
February 4, 2009
SYCAMORE HIGH SENDS RECORD NUMBER OF STUDENTS TO MUSIC ALL-STATE
SYCAMORE - Sycamore High School and the Department of Music are pleased to announce that seventeen instrumental
and vocal students were selected to attend the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State Conference in Peoria
from January 28-31. According to Music Department Chair Scott Mertens, Sycamore had the sixth highest number of
students attending All-State this year from a single school.
Mertens explained that the auditions for IMEA are very competitive and rigorous. "The students auditioned
for their respective district festivals in band, choir, orchestra and jazz band, and their chair placements or
performances at the festivals allowed them to be selected from among many deserving individuals." The students
attending All-State represent the top tier of music students from around the state.
After arriving at the All-State festival, students audition again for placement in the state groups, and they are
placed in either the all-state or honors ensembles. The rehearsals, over two days, culminate in performances of
jazz bands on Friday night, and orchestras, choirs and concert bands on Saturday afternoon. Mertens noted, "We
are very proud of our students' accomplishments and they represented our school district and our department very
well."
Sycamore students selected for All-State this year are:
Honors Orchestra - Francie Weberpal, Violin; Gail Anderson, Horn
All-State Orchestra - Chelsea Miller, Violin; Lucas Ruff, Violin; Samantha Kevin, Viola; Anthony Salis, Viola;
Hans Anderson, Cello; Lindsey Maurer, Cello; Dylan Larson, Flute; Paige Garrett, Oboe
Honors Band - Tim Lalowski, Flute; Calob Pluhm, Trombone
All-State Jazz Band - Sam Simpson, Tenor Saxophone; Will Mariani, Trumpet
Honors Choir - Chelsey Koster, Soprano
All-State Choir - Tom McManamon, Tenor; Jacob Pearson, Bass
Daily Chronicle HERE
Dec. 30, 2008 Evan Lestina Tonaki CONGRATULATIONS!!!
7 lbs. 9 oz. 19 in.
December 4th, 2008
17 All-State music students selected for 2009 IMEA
The music department would like to congratulate the 17 All-State music students
who were selected to represent Sycamore High School at the 2009 IMEA Conference in Peoria. These dedicated students
auditioned for their respective district festivals in band, choir, orchestra, and jazz band, and their chair placement
or performances at the festivals allowed them to be selected from among many deserving individuals.
These students are:
Band--Calob Pluhm, Tim Lalowski, Gail Anderson, Paige Garrett, Dylan Larson
Choir--Tom McManamon, Jacob Pearson, Chelsey Kloster
Orchestra--Francie Weberpal, Chelsea Miller, Lucas Ruff, Samantha Kevin, Anthony Salis, Hans Anderson, Lindsey
Maurer
Jazz Band--Will Mariani, Sam Simpson
The students will be going to Peoria on Wednesday, January 28 after school, and their concerts will conclude on
Saturday, January 31.
Sycamore High School will have the sixth-highest total of All-State music students in Illinois. We are proud of
our students' accomplishments, and they will represent our department and our school district very well.
SYCAMORE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2008 IMEA ALL-DISTRICT MUSICIANS
SYCAMORE - Sixty-five high school and middle school students from the Sycamore School District were selected to
participate in the 2008 Illinois Music Educators Association (IMEA) All-District Orchestras, All-District Bands
and All-District Choirs.
Students who made All-District groups performed specific musical selections for judges in competitive auditions
in October that are tightly regulated by the IMEA. The students who were selected spent one day in rehearsals,
culminating in performances on the same day. The All-District Jazz Festival was held at Hononegah High School.
The All-District Orchestra, Band, and Choir Festivals were held at Northern Illinois University.
Sycamore students selected for IMEA include:
HIGH SCHOOL ORCHESTRA:
Hans Anderson, cello; Aaron Brancato, cello; Lindsey Maurer, cello; Greyson Scott, cello; Samantha Kevin, viola;
Claire Mogren, bass; Erica Nielsen, violin; Isaac Parra, violin; Tim Salis, violin; Chelsea Miller, violin; Lucas
Ruff, violin; Anthony Salis, violin; Francie Weberpal, violin; Dylan Larson, flute; Tim Lalowski, flute; Paige
Garrett, oboe; Gail Anderson, horn
HIGH SCHOOL BAND:
Ian Kates, flute; Dominic Gentile, oboe; Steven Lalowski, bassoon; Kristian Kates, trumpet; Will Mariani, trumpet;
Caitlin Sherman, french horn; Leif Anderson, trombone; Calob Pluhm, trombone; Joey Thompson, trombone; Jessica
Pluhm, baritone.
HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR:
Caitlin Elsik, Alto II; Chelsey Kloster, Soprano; Tom Mcmanamon, Tenor II; Jake Pearson, Bass I; Chelsea Benjamin,
Soprano II; Lauren Gin, Alto I; Miles Grimes, Bass I; Veronica Behrens, Soprano I; Evan Bross, Bass II; Yaron Lotan,
Tenor I; Lucy Wrenn, Alto II.
HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ BAND:
Ian Kates, alto saxophone; Joey Larkin, tenor saxophone; Sam Simpson, tenor saxophone; Dana Atkins, tenor saxophone,
Will Mariani, trumpet; Micah Huff, trumpet; Kristian Kates, trumpet; Alec Nauman, trumpet; Matthew Larks, trumpet;
Calob Pluhm, trombone; Leif Anderson, trombone; Joey Thompson, trombone; Dominic Johnson, trombone; D.J. Yunek,
trombone; Nathaniel Van Wienen, piano; Sho Ishimaru, bass.
Students from Sycamore Middle School who have been selected for IMEA include:
MIDDLE SCHOOL ORCHESTRA:
Zoe Bond, violin; Lizzie Briscoe, violin; Katie Denius, violin; Rebecca Hooey, violin; Kevin Lin, violin; Danielle
Pivonka, violin; Cole Regnery, violin; Meredith Whisenhunt, violin; Alex Acosta, viola; Trent Englum, viola; Alyssa
Gregorec, viola; Hanna Gross, viola; Emily Young, viola; McKinzie Spence, viola; Rebecca Vidales, viola; Maggie
Lalowski, cello; Ryan Lindsey, cello; Paige Phelps, cello; Drake Shelledy, cello; Cooper Vinz, cello, Sarah Grant,
bass; Seth Kates, bass; Lydia Moore, bass.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND:
Ashlyn Gardner, flute; Owen Ruff, oboe; Hannah Larks, clarinet; Jordyn Shultz, french horn.
MIDDLE SCHOOL JAZZ BAND:
Anthony Gentile, alto saxophone; Taylor Brady, tenor saxophone; Franklin Marsh, trombone; Alex Taylor, trombone;
Elizabeth Watson, piano; Lydia Moore, bass.
September 30th, 2008
SHS MARCHING SPARTANS CAPTURE FIRST-PLACE WIN, FOUR TROPHIES
Drum Major Sam Simpson proudly displays the four trophies won by the SHS Marching Band
Sycamore - When the Sycamore High School Marching
Spartans were announced as winners of four trophies last Saturday, Drum Major Sam Simpson was a little surprised,
but not completely surprised. "I had a feeling we would fare well in this competition. The band's performance
spoke for itself."
And the trophies speak for the SHS Marching Band's performance at the 21st Annual Wheaton North Falcon Field Show
on September 20. The band, under the direction of Ken Goodman and Becky Olsen, won first place in the Class A division
and captured special awards for Best Music Performance, Best Visual Performance, and Best Drumline.
The band's field show is titled "Solar Stages" and features four sections including Sunrise, Twilight,
Nightfall, and Aurora. All high school students enrolled in the band program at SHS, grades 9-12, are a part of
this field show.
Simpson, who is also a senior in the SHS band, said everyone in the band stepped it up for the performance. He
said, "in spite of the fact that some of the marching was extremely challenging, the band pulled it off."
He's even more impressed with how well the band works together. He explained that "there's great chemistry
- everyone supports each other. We made it one of our goals to have excellent bonding between all members of the
band. I think it's safe to say that we have reached that goal."
The Marching Spartans continue their 67th season with half-time performances at the SHS home football games and
the Marengo Settler's Day Field Show Competition on October 12.
They will end their season with a performance in the SHS Field House on October 20 at 7:30 p.m.
July 1st, 2008
Sycamore Musicians receive top Ensemble honors
Sycamore - Three Sycamore High School senior musicians
ended their high school careers on a very high note. 2008 graduates Jessica Aldis, Bryan Carter and Quentin Scott
were named this year's recipients of the ensemble awards given out by the SHS Department of Music.
Jessica Aldis received the National Choral Award; Bryan Carter received the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award and the
John Philip Sousa Band Award; and Quentin Scott received the National Orchestra Award. Their peers and directors
selected them for these awards.
All of the recipients have been heavily involved in the Sycamore music programs during their tenures. They have
been selected based on a variety of criteria including outstanding musicianship and performance, strong leadership,
excellent overall behavior, mentoring of younger musicians, being section leaders, demonstrating teamwork, and
providing assistance to ensemble directors. Music department chair Scott Mertens noted, "All of the award
winners are excellent leaders through their words and examples. They have helped our ensembles to excel, and their
efforts are greatly appreciated by their teachers and peers."
Jessica Aldis was in choir, symphonic band, marching band, pep band, madrigals, jazz choir and various musicals
throughout high school. She was an all-district musician and was selected for the All-State Honors Choir her junior
and senior years. In 2007, she was selected to sing the National Anthem at a state championship volleyball game.
She consistently earned Division I ratings on solo and ensemble contest pieces. Jessica has also been involved
in Stagecoach musicals for several years.
Bryan Carter was a drummer in the SHS symphonic band, marching band, pep band, orchestra and jazz band through
high school. He participated in IMEA District Jazz Ensembles throughout high school and received the International
Association of Jazz Educators Award his junior and senior years. He received an outstanding soloist award his junior
year at the New Trier Jazz Festival. He earned the distinction of being the top drum set player at All-State his
junior and senior years, playing in the All-State Honors Jazz Combo. He received Division I ratings on district
solo and ensemble pieces. In addition, he was selected as a drummer for the 2008 Gibson/Baldwin Grammy Jazz Ensembles
and performed at the Grammy Awards this year.
As a violinist, Quentin Scott has played in the SHS orchestras, the pit orchestra for musicals, and a variety of
string ensembles and quartets for school-related events. He participated in high school IMEA District Festivals
and was selected for All-State his sophomore year. He earned Division I ratings on solos and ensembles and was
selected to participate in the Allerton String Program at the University of Illinois. Quentin has been involved
in NIU's Suzuki Music Program in the Community School of the Arts since age 5.
These SHS graduates were also named as 2008 recipients of the Arthur Montzka Memorial Arts Awards - Jessica for
choir, Bryan for band and Quentin for orchestra.
In addition, Jessica and Bryan were awarded the 2008 Sycamore Music Boosters Senior Music Scholarships in the amount
of $500 each, because of their outstanding musicianship and their decision to major in music in college.
-Madelyn Anderson, Sycamore Music Boosters
(photo courtesy Daily Chronicle)For Daily Chronicle Article, Click HERE
May 20, 2008
NAMM Foundation Names Sycamore Among the
"Best Communities for Music Education"
The NAMM Foundation announced that the Sycamore School
District and community are among America's "Best Communities for Music Education." Sycamore is among
the prestigious list of 110 school districts across the nation that exemplifies community commitment to include
music education as part of a quality education for all children. The NAMM Foundation and its music education advocacy
efforts work to ensure that all children have access to quality music education programs that encourage life-long
participation in music making.
This year's roster of musical schools represents 29 states with New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas,
and Virginia representing the most districts. Sycamore is among only three (3) Illinois school districts included
on this year's list. District 300 in Carpentersville and Joliet Schools are the other two Illinois School Districts
receiving this designation.
Hundreds of teachers, school and district administrators, school board members, parents and community leaders,
representing communities in all 50 states participated in the Web-based survey. The districts were measured across
a variety of program support, curricular and programmatic criteria. Furthermore, the results were measured proportionally,
so that communities of different sizes were compared equally. "We commend these school districts for their
commitment to assuring that music is part of a complete education for children," said Mary Luehrsen, executive
director, NAMM Foundation. "It takes the commitment of an entire community to assure that music is part of
the core curriculum. Children engaged in music will be the innovation leaders of tomorrow, and there is no better
way to build life-long participation in music than with a solid base of music education.&r! dquo;
Luehrsen also noted that throughout the survey's eight years several districts have reported that making the "Best
Communities" list has had a tangible effect on their ability to preserve music for their students. This year,
recipients cited increased enrollment in music programs and more support from parents and community members as
they realize the physical, mental and emotional value music education brings to students. Research reveals strong
correlations between quality music education in school and academic achievement. Students actively involved with
music programs develop skills needed by the 21st century workforce, including critical thinking, creative problem
solving, effective communication and team work.
Sycamore Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Riesen commented that "it takes a team effort to be included on
a prestigious list such as this. Congratulations to our entire music staff, our students, and the entire City of
Sycamore for their support of quality music education."
SHS ANNOUNCES ALL-CONFERENCE MUSICIANS
The Western Sun Conference recently announced the all-conference musicians who will participate in the conference
band festival on February 21. Rochelle High School will host the Western Sun Conference Band Festival. After a
full day of rehearsals, the festival bands will perform at 7:00 p.m. at the high school.
Seventeen musicians from Sycamore High School were selected for the all-conference bands. They include the following:
Freshman-Sophomore Band: Gail Anderson, Leif Anderson, Jacob Correa, Ian Kates, Kristian Kates, Joey Larkin, Jessica Pluhm,
Nathaniel Van Wienen.
Junior-Senior Band: Kayla Benjamin, Bryan Carter, Corie Choi, Katie Doonan, Dylan Larson, Holly Martin, Amy Olson,
Siobhan Sheil, and Sam Simpson.
For Daily Chronicle Article, Click HERE
SYCAMORE HIGH
SCHOOL MUSICIANS PERFORM AT ALL-STATE
Sycamore High School is pleased to announce that 12 instrumental
and vocal musicians from SHS were selected to attend the Illinois Music Educators Association (IMEA) All-State
Conference in Peoria, Illinois. The conference took place January 30 - February 2 and included auditions, rehearsals
and performances by the All-State ensembles.
According to SHS Band Director Ken Goodman, the selection process for All-State is highly competitive and rigorous.
Music students first audition for the IMEA District music festivals in the fall. Then, the top students from each
district around the state are chosen to participate in the All-State festival. After arriving at the All-State
festival, the students audition again for placement in the state groups and they are placed in either the all-state
or honors ensembles. The rehearsals, over two days, culminate with performances of jazz bands on Friday night and
orchestras, choirs and concert bands on Saturday afternoon
For Daily Chronicle Article, Click HERE..........or
HERE
Students from Sycamore High School selected for the 2007
All-State include:
ALL-STATE HONORS JAZZ COMBO - Bryan Carter, drums
ALL-STATE BAND - Amy Olson, trumpet; Corie Choi, French horn
ALL-STATE HONORS ORCHESTRA - Francie Weberpal, cello
ALL-STATE ORCHESTRA - Chelsea Miller, violin; Anthony Salis, violin; Gina Spinoso, violin; Lindsay Maurer, cello; Hans
Anderson, cello; Greyson Scott, cello
ALL-STATE HONORS CHOIR- Jessica Aldis; Jamie Melin
The Grammy Foundation has announced that SHS student
Bryan Carter has been named as the drummer in the Grammy High School Jazz Combo. Bryan earned this coveted chair
by winning a national audition. Bryan is one of only three Illinois students to be selected for Grammy ensembles.
Click HERE for the Daily Chronicle article. Photo courtesy of : Kate Weber
