Feature Photo: Royal Oak Students Perform at Prestigious Music Conference

Royal Oak Middle School students Maya Grossman, Emma Harris and Tess DeWilde-Kohler performed at the Michigan Music Conference in Grand Rapids on Jan. 19. The girls were chosen from approximately 2,200 students to be in the Michigan 2013 Middle School All-State Band.

"It's a fabulous honor for the kids to be chosen," said Keith Kohring, Royal Oak Schools District music coordinator. "It's a once in a lifetime opportunity."

The Michigan Music Conference is comprised of the Michigan Chapter of the American String Teachers Association, Michigan Music Education Association, Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association and the Michigan School Vocal Music Association.

Under the direction of guest conductor Erik Morales the students played "Call to the Chase" by Todd Stalter, "Sun Cyles" by Brian Balmages, "Legend of Devil's Lake" by Michael Sweeney, "Sunburst" and "March of the Patriots" by Morales.

"This year the middle school and high school performances were out of this world," Kohring said. "They played exceptionally well."  

In addition to the girls, three other Royal Oak Middle School students and six Royal Oak High School students were selected for this year’s All-State Band. Four students were chosen to participate in the State Honors Choir.

All-State Band members are:

All-State High School Band

• Francesca Leo - flute

All State High School Jazz Ensemble

• Andrew Jensen – trumpet
• Ryan Noechel - string bass

All-State Middle School Band

• Maya Grossman – clarinet
• Tess DeWilde Kohler - trumpet
• Emma Harris – trumpet

Honor’s Choir members are:

High School State Honor's Choir

• Leslie Seery
• Camille Primeau

Middle School Honors Choir

• Jessica Showers
• Daisjah Robertson

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