Press release

GALION – The Galion High School Symphonic Band and Symphonic Choir each earned a “Superior” rating in their respective Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Large Group Adjudicated Competitions.

The Symphonic Choir, comprised of 41 members, earned their high marks at Van Buren High School April 21. The choir performed “Sing Unto the Lord” by Charles Yannerella, “Don’t Forget Me” by Ruth Morris Gray, and “Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name” by Brazeal W. Dennard.

“I am very proud of my symphonic choir students because they have put in a lot of time preparing and a great deal of energy into making it a truly wonderful musical performance,” said Director of Choirs Rick Walker. “I was very excited when I received the evaluation sheet that showed the choir received straight 1’s from every judge! It is great validation for the students to hear and see that their hard work does pay off.”

The GHS Symphonic Band received their “Superior” rating during their competition at Findlay High School April 22. The band performed the following concert selections: “An Irish Rhapsody” by Clare Grundman, “Shenandoah” by Frank Ticheli, and “Excelsior” by Karl King, arranged by Gene Milford.

“The students that participate in this ensemble are fantastic to work with in class every day and are very dedicated,” said Director of Bands Jessica Hammond. “What they have accomplished together is something special and I hope that they all continue to participate in the ensemble throughout their high school careers.”

The Symphonic Band’s musical selections can be heard during the annual Galion Chicken BBQ Saturday, May 6. The event is being held in the high school cafetorium and gymnasium, and the performance schedule is as follows:

• 5:00 – GHS Jazz Ensemble
• 5:30 – 5th Grade Band
• 6:00 – 6th Grade Band
• 6:30 – GMS Concert Band (7th and 8th)
• 7:00 – GHS Symphonic Band and high school awards

“This is an outstanding accomplishment for our students,” said Superintendent Jim Grubbs. “I want to congratulate both groups, Mr. Walker and Mrs. Hammond on representing Galion in such a positive manner and achieving the highest marks possible at the top level of musical competition in the state.”