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Marian Symphonic Band Earns First Place


Chicago Heights, IL–(ENEWSPF)– Marian Catholic has traditionally fared very well at the State of the Art Catholic Band Competition and this year was no exception on Feb. 16 at Brother Rice High School . The Symphonic Band has won each year in eligibility since the contests inception in 1981. Each year’s Grand Champion returns the next year in exhibition, however, Marian still holds to its champion status as its Concert Band has now won its last two years in eligibility.

While Marian Symphonic has been in exhibition, its Concert Band has won the contest and vice versa for the past five years, making Marian Catholic the Grand Champion for five consecutive years. Marian Symphonic walked away with all captions in the 28th Annual competition at Brother Rice, including Best Woodwinds, Best Brass and Best Percussion, while its Concert Band concluded the day with an exhibition performance for all in attendance.

Catholic schools from around Chicago , including St. Laurence, St. Rita, Guerin Prep, Fenwick and several others presented performances from all levels of concert literature.

In addition, Marian’s freshmen band, the Cadet Band, stepped forward and claimed a class AA championship for the first time since being promoted to an elevated class. The Cadet Band won Class A for three years in a row, requiring a promotion. Last year, Cadet Band placed third in this highly competitive class where no other group is made solely of freshmen. The Cadet Band also brought home awards for Best Brass, Best Woodwinds and Best Percussion.

“We are always honored when we get to perform,” Assistant Band Director Bobby Lambert said. “Saturday’s accomplishments speak to the hard work of our program and its members. Our students represented themselves and Marian very well in not only their performance and success, but in their demeanor throughout the day. So many volunteers were highly complimentary and that is true success.”

Head Director Greg Bimm added, “Having been a part of the contest since it began makes it a very special weekend for me personally. The contest is a great event where the best Catholic bands gather to share, celebrate and compete. It has had a major impact on the quality of Catholic high school bands throughout the Chicagoland area.”

The Concert and Symphonic Band will continue their competitive season at Illinois State Concert Band Festival held on the campus of ISU on April 26 and present a home concert in the East Gym at Marian on April 30.

Source: MCHS


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