Nazareth Academy Students Qualify For Band And Choir Festival

LA GRANGE PARK, IL — Three Nazareth Academy students were selected for the District 1 Illinois Music Education Association Choir, Band and Orchestra Festival that took place Nov. 18. Senior Daphne Bigelow of Lemont, junior Lucia Battaglia of Hinsdale and freshman Peter Thornton of Hinsdale participated in the festival. The school said over 1,700 student musicians auditioned for this opportunity, which offers the chance to progress from the District level to the State level.

According to the school, these three students succeed not only in music at Nazareth, but in other facets of student life as well, including involvement in clubs and athletics.

“The success of these student-musicians is a great testament to their hard work and dedication, and a proud reflection of Nazareth’s commitment to educating the whole person. We have a wonderful legacy of excellence in the Fine Arts, which continues to be strengthened through recognition by the ILMEA,” Principal Deborah
Tracy, said in a release.

Bigelow ‘18 performed with the Chorus as an alto.

“Daphne is a student who goes the extra mile in challenging herself to be a better singer,” Ann Bourjaily-Maney, Choir Director, said in a release. “She has been known to sing soprano, alto, and even tenor. She is always willing to help where needed. She cantors at school liturgies, sings in the small auditioned group, Progressions, and serves her community as a church cantor as well. The choral repertoire and aural skills for ILMEA are extremely challenging and Daphne put in countless hours preparing.”

The schools said Battaglia ‘19 performed with the Orchestra as a string bass.

“Lucy is a talented musician and student. Her passion for music is evident by her constant drive to continually improve,” Michael Sliwinski, Director of Bands, said in a release. “She is the personification of Nazareth creating well- rounded individuals with her participation as a team manager for the football team, as well as her past participation in volleyball.”

Thornton ‘21 performed with the Symphonic Band as a bass clarinet.

“Peter is a talented musician who put in many hours of preparation for his audition by working with his lesson instructor,” Sliwinski said in a release. “Since he’s still a freshman, Peter will only continue to grow as a
musician. I look forward to seeing what he will accomplish the remaining years of his high school career and beyond.”

Photos provided by Nazareth Academy.