CGS musicians make history
The Chester Grade School Band and Chorus accomplished something this spring that no other CGS band and chorus has ever accomplished: Both musical groups earned top honors at the 2022 Illinois Grade School Music Association (IGSMA) Organizational Contest.
Both groups did well this year at the 2022 IGSMA Solo and Ensemble Contest, bringing home three "Superior" ratings and 35 "1st Place" ratings, but now Chester Grade School has earned "1st Superior" ratings in both band and chorus performances at the Organizational Contest.
At Solo and Ensemble Contest, individual musicians and small groups compete for awards and are evaluated by one judge. At Organizational Contest, the entire band or chorus competes as a unit. A panel of three judges evaluates the groups and their ratings are averaged into one single rating for the performance.
Performances consist of the band and chorus performing three different songs for the judges. Judges evaluate each performance in eight different areas: tone quality; intonation; rhythm; balance and blend; technique; interpretation and musicianship; diction and articulation; and "other" performance factors such as choice of songs, appearance, poise, posture, general conduct, mannerisms and facial expressions.
Due to COVID-19 concerns, all IGSMA contests were conducted virtually the past two years. Last year performances were conducted via audio recordings. This year audiovisual recordings were utilized to give the judges a better opportunity to both see and hear the performances.
Some students were more stressed by being recorded both via audio and visual methods while others enjoyed performing for the camera.
The CGS musicians, both instrumental and vocal apparently fared well in front of the camera because they earned their best ratings in school history.
In previous years, CGS bands or choruses, one or the other, have earned all superior ratings, but this year was a first for both band and chorus to earn "1st Superior" ratings overall.
The only more impressing feat would be for both band and chorus performances to receive a perfect score of 40 from all three judges. Chester still has that goal to strive for.
Each performance area has a possibility of 5 points that can be earned in eight areas, for a maximum 40 points.
To give an indication of how well the Chester Grade School band and chorus performed, both band and chorus earned overall "1st Superior" ratings, which indicate a score of 40-38 points.
Chester's band performed "The Navy Trident Concert March" by Robert W. Smith; "The Lake of Sorrows, Tales from the Darklands" by Randan D. Standridge; and "Legend of the Eagles" by David Schaffer. The band is directed by Sue Colonel.
All three judges awarded the band 38 points, for a total of total of 114 points and an overall rating of 38 points.
Some of the judge's comments included, "On the whole a great performance"; "Many good things going on"; "Nice full, warm sound"; Great breath support"' "Very nice on all of your pieces"; "Very nice clean attacks"; "Interpretation and musicianship was probably your strongest attribute"; "I am proud of your hard work"; "This is a well-taught and well-disciplined group"; "You are having fun with music in this band"; "I enjoyed your performance! It shows GREAT teaching is happening in Chester."
The CGS chorus performed "Sing with Jubilation," "Give Me Your Stars to Hold" and "This Little Light of Mine." The chorus is directed by Steve Colonel and accompanied by Vicky Beers.
The judges awarded the chorus a total of 117 points, with one judge giving them a perfect score, for an average overall score of 39.
Some of the judge's comments regarding the choral performances were "Great sound choir"; "Good balance and blend"; "Your tonal quality is lovely"; "Everyone is watching the director"; "Great job Chester!"; "Nice warm, round sound"; "Keep listening to your teacher"; "Very well-rehearsed attacks and releases"; and "I love your dynamics."
More comments include, "You look disciplined and professional"; "Keep having fun with music and listening to your teacher"; "I think these men need a men's group of their own in high school because they are strong and awesome! Keep it up guys!" and "I hope you ALL continue singing in high school and encourage others to join you. You only get to do high school for a short time. Take advantage of all of your opportunities to help yourself grow!"