The Cordell High School Band is headed to State! On Tuesday, March 4th the high school band performed at District Band Contest at Elk City. In order for competing bands to advance to State, they must receive a Division I (Superior) rating based on the following scale.
• Division I (Superior) this is a first rate performance with few technical errors that exemplifies a truly musical expression worthy of the distinction of being recognized as being among the best.
• Division II (Excellent or Above average) this is an unusual performance in many respects, but not worthy of the highest rating due to minor defects in performance or ineffective interpretation.
• Division III (Good or Average) this is a performance lacking in many essentials, balance, tone, intonation, precision, etc.
• Division IV (Fair or Below Average) this is a below average performance and not worthy of a higher rating because of basic weaknesses in most of the fundamental factors.
• Division V (Poor) this is an ineffective performance indicating major deficiencies in tone quality, intonation, balance, blend and musical expression.
Three judges scrutinize the band’s performances and each judge gives a rating based on that performance. The highest and lowest scores are dropped and the band’s final rating is the remaining score. The Cordell High School band received a Superior rating from all three judges and will compete at State contest in April. The contest will be held in Ada at East Central University.
There are actually two parts to concert band contest. The first part is their prepared performance on stage. The second part of the contest is the sight reading competition. After their performance on stage the band is escorted to a separate room where they will be play for a single judge. Here they are given a piece of music that none of them have ever seen or played before. They are allowed eight minutes to study, discuss and mentally prepare the music but may not play at all. As soon as the eight minutes expires the band must then perform the music. The Cordell Band also received a Superior rating for their sight reading performance.
They will take another shot at winning the illustrious “Sweepstakes Award” this year. A Sweepstakes is awarded only to bands that earn a superior rating in Regional Marching Contest, State Concertell Schools a Sweepstakes Award this year.” Band Contest, and State Sight Reading Contest. “Last year we had an off day at State and received straight two’s. We plan to be ready this year. Nothing would make us more proud than to bring Cordell Schools a Sweepstakes Award this year.”