Dear Edmonds-Woodway Music Families and Supporters
It appears the long winter is finally at an end and the long, lazy days of summer are almost within reach. Before the school year is over however, there are many exciting music-related events and somewhat less exciting academic challenges ahead. But first the news…
Acting President and Call for Volunteers
Our Boosters Vice President Jennifer Castle, has been filling in as Acting President for Penny Wright who is currently unavailable, and will continue to do so for the rest of the school year. Our Music Boosters team has been working diligently to support our student musicians, teachers, and families. More volunteers are always needed and we will be electing a new Board shortly. If you love music and the arts, now more than ever our program could use your help. Please consider running for a Board position or volunteer to help in other ways, big and small. Contact ewhsmusicboosters2@gmail.com if you are interested.
ESD Budget Cuts
As you are no doubt aware, the Edmonds School District budget cuts have profoundly affected our music programs and we are still waiting to see exactly what the final changes will be. Currently the proposed plan includes combining the Symphonic and Concert Bands into a single band, and Symphonic and Concert Orchestras into a single orchestra. Jazz Ensemble 2 will become a half year class during the day, while guitar and piano classes will also be offered during the day. The Mello-Aires and Bel Canto Choir will remain as is.
Cascade Symphony Scholarship
The Cascade Symphony has awarded a $2000 scholarship to Audrey Chen, who plays cello in the EWHS Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Gillian Malacari. Congratulations Audrey!!
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival (4/20-24)
Our Jazz Bands and Jazz Choir the Mello-Aires recently took part in the renowned Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in Moscow, Idaho. The event included over 400 student performances, many world-class professional artists, and almost a 100 workshops, clinics, and special exhibits. More information here.
EWHS won several awards and commendations:
- Winner Large Group AAAA Vocal Jazz – the Mello-Aires under direction of Charlotte Reese
- Winner AAAA Combo – EWHS Jazz Combo with Max Bartron, Don Tran, Nick Reinert, and Forrest Aubrey. Under direction of Jake Bergevin
- Winner of Avista Scholarship – Max Bartron for outstanding soloist overall
- Outstanding Soloists – Max Bartron, Nick Reinert
- Soloist Commendations – Leo Nakamura, Ella Cochran, Forrest Aubrey, Nick Reinert, and Max Bartron
Masterworks Concert (4/27)
EWHS music families and supporters recently enjoyed an evening of delightful music at the Masterworks Concert under the direction of Gillian Malacari and Charlotte Reese. Participants included the Philharmonic Orchestra, Bel Canto choir, and Edmonds College Symphonic Choir. Soloists included Sophia McCann on violin, Jonah Barnett on oboe, and Audrey Chen on cello.
WA State Solo & Ensemble (4/28-29)
It is a tremendous honor to be selected to compete at the state level in Solo & Ensemble. Every participant represents countless hours of hard work and dedication. Special congratulations to Lucas Alyea (1st in Base Voice Solo) & Matt Tang (2nd for Guitar Solo), but in truth, all the participants are winners!
Participants:
- Sophia McCann – violin
- Lucas Alyea – bass voice (1st place)
- Amelie Medeiros – alto sax
- Matt Tang – guitar (2nd place)
- Percussion trio including Max Bartron, Allen Bautista and Matt Tang
The Edmonds Arts Festival (6/16-18)
Father’s Day Weekend, June 16-18, Fri & Sat 10-7, Sun 10-5
Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main Street, Edmonds, WA 98020
The Edmonds Arts Festival has been held annually in June for over 60 years, and is considered one of the most prestigious art events in the country. The Festival features a wide variety of artists and installations, large and small. The EWHS PSO and Music Boosters has been offered a free booth to sell food at the Edmonds Arts Festival. We need your help to make it happen! Please see the sign-up to volunteer or offer your ideas. If you have a student that needs volunteer hours, please let them know about this opportunity.
Craft Fair (held at EWHS, previously 1st weekend of December – date to be confirmed)
The Boosters would like to revive our extremely popular Craft Fair, showcasing talented local crafters and their wares. Your help is needed in planning and running this event. Crafters need enough time to sign up for a table and create inventory, so please consider contacting the Boosters ASAP if you are a crafter and/or would like to help. Contact us at ewhsmusicboosters2@gmail.com.
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
Bel Canto Solo Night
Tuesday, May 9 at 7:00pm
EWHS Theater
Edmonds Jazz Connection
Saturday, May 20 (time tbd)
All jazz groups – full schedule coming soon
Edmonds Jazz Walk
Saturday, June 3 from 6:00pm to midnight
Downtown Edmonds
Jazz Ensemble 1 playing at Edmonds Movie Theater at 5:00pm
Click here for more info
Mello-Aires Solo Night
Monday, June 5 at 7:00pm
EWHS Theater
Spring Awards Concert
Tuesday, June 6 at 7:00pm
EWHS Great Hall
Jazz Band Night
Thursday, June 8 at 7:00pm
EWHS Theater
Music Department BBQ for Music Students
Friday, June 9 (time tbd)
Edmonds City Park
Spring Concert (Symphonic and Concert Bands and Orchestras)
Tuesday, June 13 at 7:00pm
Great Hall
Edmonds Arts Festival
Father’s Day Weekend, June 16-18, Fri & Sat 10-7, Sun 10-5
Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main Str., Edmonds, WA 98020
Mello-Aires at 11:30am on June 18
Jazz Ensemble 1 from 1-2pm on June 18
Volunteers needed! Click this link to sign up.
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