On May 3, Upper School band and chorus members participated in the Hersheypark Music Showcase Festivals Competition. After a month of ranking and deliberation, Upper School band and chorus received the 2024 Hersheypark Music Showcase Festivals Overall High School Instrumental Award, earning the highest score (99/100) among 10 competing high schools from Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
The Quakers achieved remarkable success, securing superior ratings for both band and choir competitions, placing them among the top-tier music groups. Junior Alara Arkan and freshman Maggie DeBell earned soloist awards, while the tenor and bass sections of the Charter Singers received recognition for their outstanding work.
"The poise and professionalism displayed by our band and chorus students at the competition were remarkable," noted Brad Ford, director of Upper School bands. "Judges and festival organizers remarked how respectful and courteous we were, which only heightened the excellence displayed in our performance at the festival. It is exciting to see the band and choir rated highly among some of the top band and choral programs in the Mid-Atlantic."
Congratulations to our Upper School band and chorus members and to the entire Performing Arts Department!