Soloists earn top ratings at contest

By Donnie A. Lucas

A total of 10 members of the high school band earned Division I ratings and medals at the solo and ensemble contest held last Saturday in Abilene.

A group of 12 students completed, with 10 earning the highest rating for a medal. The other two members received Division II ratings, still considered excellent based on the five-point system.

Students played solos ranging from Class 1 to Class 3, based on the level of difficulty.

“The kids put in a lot of hard work,” director Will Vaughan said. “They were nervous because they hadn’t performed individually before. But they all did a really good job.”

The only musician who earned a Division 1 on a Class I solo, the most difficult level, was senior Clara Holson.

Several students played Class 2 solos, also earning Division I ratings for medals. Those included Chey’Anne Weaver, Trinity McBee, Ashley Sanchez, Sterlin Hobbs, and Austin Sanchez.

Performing Class 3 solos and earning Division I ratings were Jonathan Coody, Landon Kreitler, John Birkla, and Chyanne Thomas.

This is the largest group to compete at UIL Solo and Ensemble competition in several years.

The band is traveling to Colorado to attend a concert clinic, along with some sightseeing during the first week of March.

The group will compete in UIL Concert and Sightreading on March 29 at Wylie High School in Abilene.

Albany earned a Division I rating in marching last fall, advancing for the first time in program history to the area contest.