A local band composed of young musicians wowed the judges on the grand stage to secure first-place hardware during a recent competition in Orlando.
It’s the second year in a row the Plantation Key School concert band reached musical supremacy following a stellar performance.
Led by Plantation Key School band director Katharine Yarbrough, a group of 33 students traveled to Universal Studios in Orlando to compete at Soundstage 33 on March 14. Having won first place at last year’s competition, the band returned to play two pieces in hopes of going back-to-back on the stage. The band played “Cold Brook March” by John O’Reilly and “Imperium” by Michael Sweeney.
A big stage and bright lights, as well as three prestigious judges, didn’t bother the musicians during their performance. The band came away with a first-place finish for the second year in a row.
“I am incredibly proud of the Plantation Key School Middle School Concert Band for their tireless dedication and remarkable improvement in their ensemble sound,” Yarbrough said. “Overcoming the challenges of being young players, their perseverance and passion have truly paid off. Their unity and commitment to excellence resonate in every note they play, and it is an absolute joy to witness their growth and success.”
Yarbrough added that the three judges – Gary Miller, John Depuis and Scott Lubaroff – offered rave reviews of the band. The judges said the band paid attention to many details, all while providing a refined tone and good ensemble. The band received a “superior” rating on its performance — the highest rating any band can achieve.
“The students were so happy that they took home a very large first-place trophy; I have never seen so many smiling faces,” Yarbrough said.
Following the performance, the young musicians received an on-stage clinic to learn how to improve their sound within sections of the songs they played for the judges.
Yarbrough said she’s excited to see how the success of the middle school concert band can serve as a catalyst for the entire music program’s growth. She hopes the accomplishments encourage younger students to consider joining the band.
“Their achievements not only highlight their individual talents and teamwork but also set a shining example for aspiring musicians across our school,” she said. “Together, we are building a thriving musical community where creativity and passion for music can flourish. I am eager to nurture this momentum and witness the incredible heights we will reach together.”
