Woodridge District 68 Band Takes 1st in Division at Music in the Parks Festival

Second Year Band took first place in its division at the Music in the Parks Festival May 5. 

The Second Year Band, which consists of fifth- and sixth-graders, received an "Excellent" rating with a combined score of 87.5 out of 100 points. The band placed 14th overall for the day, ahead of 20 middle school, junior high and high school ensembles. 

It was the 10th year in a row the band participated in the competition, which attracts bands, orchestras, jazz ensembles and choirs from surrounding states and area communities. 

Students competed in the auditorium at Evanston Township High School, then traveled to Six Flags Great America for the award ceremony. 

Gary Clemson from Harper College and Richard Frazier from Concordia College judged the event. They praised the band for performing with excellent tone quality, blend, rhythmic accuracy and musicality, according to a school release. 

Elementary Band Director Bradley J. Payne complimented the students on their excellent performance as well as their good behavior during the day in a school release. 

“The kids played their best and they behaved well the entire day," Payne said. "To me, this demonstrates their excellent character as much as their work ethic and performance abilities. I’m extremely proud of them and happy to see them do so well at this event.”