District 212 music students earn superior ratings at state contest

Leyden's Symphonic Band, String Orchestra, West campus Concert Band, and Studio Jazz Band received "Superior" Division 1 ratings, the highest rating given.

According to Bryan Miller, music department chair, performances are adjudicated by a panel of three career field experts. "This is a fantastic accomplishment, and is especially impressive because Leyden is one of the very few schools choosing to enter all program levels in the (IHSA) state contest. It is comparable to freshmen playing at the varsity level and getting the highest scores," he says.

In addition to being "very proud" of the work being done by band and orchestra students, Miller says it is gratifying to see so many student musicians successful at a high visibility event like the IHSA State Music Contest.

"Most of these students are in our program for four years, including summers with our huge summer marching band program. They go to great lengths to keep music class in their schedule. They are dedicated to the activity and loyal to each other."

He adds that the program has "tremendously supportive families. It's great to see them share in such a proud moment with the kids."

In addition to Miller, Leyden's band and orchestra programs are taught and directed by Abigail Kott.