Braves engage in a symphony of learning at Music in the Parks

IHMS at Music in the Parks 2019

Indian Hill Middle School (IHMS) prepared for this since the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year: 286 seventh and eighth grade band, choir, and orchestra student-musicians traveled to Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio for the Music in the Parks Competition. Finally, Friday, May 17 the big day arrived, and Braves delivered a performance to remember.

The IHMS student awards included: Band – Excellent rating and second place in Class A Concert Band; Choir – Superior rating and first place in Class A Mixed Choir; Orchestra – Superior rating, first place in Class A String Orchestra, first Place Overall Orchestra; Indian Hill Middle School (all groups combined) earned the coveted Esprit de Corps. This 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.

“All 286 students displayed characteristics of flexibility, punctuality, attentiveness, persistence and self-control as they focused on performing to the best of their abilities,” said Indian Hill School District Orchestra Director Trista Emmons. “Those attributes led them to success on the performance stage and recognition for their professionalism. We could not be prouder of their accomplishments.

“The Music in the Parks Competition offers our ensembles the opportunity to work toward a common goal, to develop their musical skills to a high level, and to receive outside feedback from quality adjudicators. It is a marvelous learning experience.”  

In addition to the musical performances, students had the opportunity to explore STEM-based exhibits at COSI (Center of Science and Industry). After the competition, students with their peers and other performers enjoyed riding roller coasters together at Cedar Point.

Photo captions:
IHMS at Music in the Parks 2019
Violinist Joseph Kayne accepting the “Overall Best Orchestra” award on behalf of the IHMS Orchestra.

IHMS at Music in the Parks 2019
IHMS Band and Orchestra students receiving trophies for second place and first place awards.

IHMS at Music in the Parks 2019
Katie Yanes accepting the Esprit de Corps on behalf of Indian Hill Middle School.

Top photo: IHMS Band, Choir, and Orchestra at Cedar Point.