Chimacum High School Concert band earns top marks at contest

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The Chimacum High School Concert Band traveled to Port Angeles High School recently to participate in the Washington Music Educators Association Regional Ensemble Contest.

Organizers note that it was a great opportunity for the band to play for a judge, who was able to highlight successes as well as note areas for improvement, and that it felt especially important for Chimacum this year because the director and many of the musicians were beginners and had no idea how to measure their progress.

Additionally, band director Mitch Brennan tested positive for the coronavirus two days before the trip, and was unable to accompany the group.

Senior Maria Powell stepped up and applied the leadership skills she had acquired as drum major during marching season to stand in as director.

The band earned a Level 1, Superior rating, the highest possible score.

The judge praised the ensemble for their interpretation and “story-telling,” said Brennan, and also highlighted the band’s technique and precision, especially noting the musicality of the cymbal work, bass drumming, and tuba playing.