Garfield Heights Students Selected for OMEA District 4 & 7 Honor Band
Garfield Heights, OH — Under the direction of Mr. Delvin Pope, five talented Garfield Heights High School band students have earned the distinguished opportunity to participate in the OMEA (Ohio Music Education Association) District 4 & 7 High School Honors Festival, hosted at Cleveland State University from November 7-9, 2024. This prestigious event brings together top musicians from across Cuyahoga County for an unforgettable weekend of music, rehearsals, and performance.
The students selected for the Honors Band are:
Spencer Twardy
Ian Boozer
Semera Brooks
Elijah Hall
Aedon Bailey
These accomplished young musicians will join peers from schools across Districts 4 and 7, rehearsing under the guidance of three prominent conductors: Dr. Daniel Cook, Director of Bands at Ithaca College, and Professor Ted Shistle, Director of Bands at Jacksonville University, and Dr. Birch Browning, Professor of Music and Director of Bands at Cleveland State University. Together, they will prepare a program that highlights each student’s musical talent and dedication to their craft.
On November 8, the students will spend a full day in intensive rehearsal with the Honors Band, working under the direction of Dr. Cook and Professor Shistle to hone their pieces in preparation for the grand performance. The festival culminates in a public concert on November 9 at Cleveland State University's Waetjen Auditorium, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication of these high school musicians.
Participation in the OMEA Honors Festival is a high achievement for young musicians and a testament to the hard work and skill demonstrated by Spencer, Ian, Semera, Elijah, and Aedon. Their selection reflects the ongoing commitment to musical excellence within the Garfield Heights High School band program, as well as the support and encouragement of their families, teachers, and community.
The Honors Festival is open to the public, allowing family, friends, and community members the opportunity to witness the talent of Cuyahoga County’s finest young musicians. For these Garfield Heights students, the festival represents an opportunity to grow, collaborate, and perform at a level that will inspire both themselves and their audience.
Congratulations to these outstanding students and best of luck as they prepare to represent Garfield Heights High School on the District 4 & 7 Honor Band stage!