Rolling Meadows High orchestra to play in national festival

The Rolling Meadows High School Chamber Orchestra will be one of the select musical ensembles invited to perform at the 28th annual Music for All National Festival, presented by Yamaha, March 14-16 in Indianapolis.

Ensembles were selected following a recorded audition process, evaluated by a panel of nationally-esteemed conductors and music educators.

The Music for All National Festival showcases the finest high school and middle school music ensembles and student musicians in America, shining a spotlight on outstanding music-making and the importance of music education.

Seventy-one concert bands, orchestras, choirs, percussion ensembles and chamber ensembles from across America have been selected to perform at the 2019 festival.

The Rolling Meadows High School Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Kevin Carroll, will perform in concert in one of Indianapolis's premier hall, receive a post-concert clinic for future growth, providing an educational experience for both teachers and students.

The ensembles also participate in master classes and special events, including a 3,000-guest Gala Awards Banquet.

"Being invited is the achievement," says Debbie Laferty Asbill, vice president of Marketing and Communications for Music for All.

"Once an ensemble has been invited and arrives, the festival is noncompetitive, with no placings awarded. It's a celebration of musical excellence and achievement."

The Rolling Meadows High School Orchestras maintain an active schedule, performing in four school concerts per year and off-campus festivals/clinics. Students regularly participate in state and districtwide ensembles, area youth orchestras, and summer youth orchestras.

Guest clinicians and conductors frequently participate in master classes, clinics, and concerts with the orchestras.

Highlights from recent years include performances at the Illinois Music Education Conference, The Midwest Clinic, and legendary Carnegie Hall.

"We are excited for the opportunity to perform at the prestigious Music for All National Festival," said Rolling Meadows Director of Orchestras Kevin Carroll. "It's a tremendous honor to represent our community and school on this national stage."