West Orange High’s Award-Winning Wind Ensemble Will Perform At National Festival

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The award-winning West Orange High School Wind Ensemble has been invited to perform as an invited band at the 2017 Music for All National Concert Band Festival in Indiana from March 9 to 11, school administrators say.

According to the West Orange Public School District, Eric Martin, President and CEO of Music for All, sent notice to Wind Ensemble Director Lewis Kelly about the decision in late July. In his letter of invitation, Martin wrote:

“Your selection is based on the recommendation of our distinguished panel of evaluators, from an outstanding pool of applicant ensembles. Your ensemble was deemed to have achieved the high level of musical performance and artistry worthy of being featured on a national stage. We commend you and your students for your exemplary commitment to excellence and look forward to bringing national attention to your students and program.”

Martin continued:

“Performing at the 26th annual Music for All National Festival is a prestigious honor and achievement. It places West Orange High School Wind Ensemble in the extraordinary position of modeling to the world the results of performance excellence and a commitment to quality music education.”

Kelly stated that he and the Wind Ensemble were excited to perform at the festival.

“Thanks to the support of our Board of Education, administrative tea and our Music Boosters, we will be able to travel to Indianapolis and share the fantastic music making of our students,” Kelly said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime educational opportunity for the kids.”

Photo: Cynthia Cumming

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