The Carrollton Middle School wind ensemble was one of only nine middle school groups selected in the state to perform at the Music for All Southeastern Regional Concert Festival on March 26 at Georgia State University.
For more than 30 years, the Bands of America’s National Concert Festival has worked to cultivate a passion for music and put young talent on display. The ensembles invited to perform at this acclaimed event are recognized as being among the finest in the southeastern region of the United States, according to Bands of America.
This is the first time the CMS program has received this honored invitation to perform. The audition requires ensembles to submit unedited recordings of two pieces for the selection committee to review through blind judging to ensure their choices are unbiased. Securing a spot in the concert festival is highly competitive. CMS Band Director Maria Menendez knew her wind ensemble was up for the challenge.
“We are so honored to represent our band program and school system at this prestigious event,” said Menendez. “Our students have worked hard for months in preparation and are excited to be an invited ensemble. We feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to perform at the Rialto Center.”
Holding true to the standard of excellence established throughout the Trojan Band program, Menendez curated programming that complemented the strengths of her ensemble. In total, they performed five selections at the festival, featuring a piece titled “Goliath Steps” from a University of West Georgia composition major Zavier Breedlove, who specifically wrote this selection to be premiered by the CMS Wind Ensemble. CHS Associate Director Zachary Nelson served as a guest conductor and helped prepare the students.
With the honor of being invited to the concert festival, each performance includes a clinic with a guest conductor and a masterclass from GSU professors afterward. Both students and directors receive real-time feedback from nationally renowned evaluators and have the opportunity to strengthen their skills in a non-competitive environment that focuses on fostering a passion for music and meticulous attention to detail in compositions.
CMS Principal Eric Simmons shared his pride in the achievements of Menendez and the students.
“The CMS Wind Ensemble’s invitation showcases the dedication to excellence that Maria Menendez and the band exhibit,” said Simmons. “Events like this allow our students to have meaningful experiences that will impact them for years to come.”
Menendez shared that she is thankful for the support of the district’s board of education, Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus, band staff, and school administration for working together to make this performance happen.
