SHENANDOAH JUNCTION, W.Va. -- The Jefferson High School (JHS) Symphonic Band has been named West Virginia's 2024 High School Concert Band, the highest achievement attained by a high school band in the Mountain State. This year marks the seventh time the ensemble has received the prestigious designation since 2011.
High school bands statewide compete annually for the honored title. Each ensemble is required to submit a recording of three separate pieces representing different musical stylings. The winning band is chosen by a panel of five judges selected by the West Virginia Music Educators Association (WVMEA).
The Symphonic Band only began preparing for the January 26 audition in mid-December following their busy fall marching band schedule. JHS Director of Bands J.P. Lynch said he was proud of his students' commitment and dedication in the face of a challenging schedule.
"Despite the time constraints, they practiced extra hard on their own so that our submission was ready by the deadline," said Lynch. "I am humbled and grateful to work with such dedicated students. They never back down from a challenge that I put before them."
As the winning ensemble, the JHS Symphonic Band will perform on March 1 at the WVMEA Conference in Charleston. The concert will take place at 9 p.m. at the Charleston Civic Center.