N-W bands, choirs achieve gold ratings

Niagara Wheatfield Tribune, June 21, 2007

Pictured, from left, are graduating seniors from the Niagara-Wheatfield Symphonic Band: Michele Schaffer, Semper Fidelis Award recipient and Outstanding Female Band Member; Kyle Malstrom, Outstanding Male Band Member; Christine Riederer, director; and Hilary Anderson, John Philip Sousa Award recipient.

The Niagara-Wheatfield High School bands, under the direction of Christine Riederer, recently performed for the New York State School Music Association Instrumental Majors Festival. The festival was held at Niagara-Wheatfield High School on May 21 and May 22.

The Concert Band, which is comprised mostly of ninth and 10th graders, performed music at a difficulty level IV and received a “Gold” rating. The Symphonic Band, comprised mostly of juniors and seniors, performed music at a difficulty level of VI and received the highest honor of “Gold with Distinction.” Other N-W music groups scored as follows:

•NWHS Concert Choir, David Curtis, director, Level VI Gold

•NWHS Vocal Jazz Ensemble, David Curtis, director, Level VI Gold with Distinction

•Edward Town Middle School Seventh and Eighth Grade Band, Lee Brusino, director, Level IV Gold

•ETMS Sixth Grade Band, Chris Peracinny, director, Level II Gold

•ETMS Concert Choir, Ken Fick, director, Level IV Gold with Distinction

•ETMS Sixth Grade Choir Ken Fick, director, Level II Gold with Distinction