Buffalo Grove student among best of the best in nation's music ensembles
Buffalo Grove High School student Janelle Finton will join the "best of the best" for the National Association for Music Education's 2017 All-National Honor Ensembles at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
The selection follows Finton's hard work throughout the 2016-17 school year, when she practiced with dedication to gain a chair in her local, district, and state music honor ensembles.
Finton was selected as one of the top high school trumpet players in Illinois last year, performing first as a top trumpet player in the Illinois Music Educators Association's District 7 Honor Band and then with the Illinois Music Educators Association's All-State Honors Band. She was then given the opportunity to audition for this national ensemble by video audition.
Buffalo Grove's Director of Bands Henry Kappler describes Finton as a serious musician, student, and leader who elevates the level of all musicians around her. He said her selection to the national ensemble is a testament to her excellent musicianship and incredible work ethic.
"It continues to be an honor to be her band director. She continues to leave an impact on the bands at Buffalo Grove High School that will last for many years," Kappler said.
Finton was thrilled at receiving the honor.
"I wasn't expecting to be accepted after sending in my video audition to NAfME, so I am very excited and thankful to get the opportunity to play with dedicated musicians from all over the country," she said.
Her parents, Louise and Charles Finton, share in the excitement, saying they are looking forward to hearing some amazing music at the final concerts.
The All-National Honor Ensembles performers represent collaboration and creativity in its highest musical form. The All-National Honor Ensembles consist of a concert band, symphony orchestra, mixed choir, and jazz ensemble. Students were chosen through an audition process. Eligible students have qualified for their state-level honor ensemble program and competed against top students for a spot in these national honor ensembles.