Jefferson symphonic band earns superior rating

May 1—JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Area High School Symphonic Band recently earned a superior rating for the third year in a row at a state competition in Canton, said JAHS Band Director Fred Burazer.

Burazer said the band earned a composite score of one from four judges, that led to the superior rating.

"This marks the the third year in a row we have earned this award and the fifth time in the past eight years," he said of the competition sponsored by the Ohio Musical Educators Association.

Burazer said it also marked the 16th superior award since 1954.

"We performed three prepared pieces," Burazer said of the "Gallant Marines", "Zip Line and "Of Time and Change.:

"Three judges (current or former band directors) rate us on our performance and a fourth listens to us in a separate room where we have to read a piece of music we have never seen before," he said.

"The students were well-prepared, passionate and dedicated to our plan going into state contest. They had to qualify for the event back in early March by competing at the district level in Westlake," Burazer said.

Burazer said the students were able to put in all the hard work while also preparing for the band's spring concert, JazzFest, a trip to Chicago and sports competitions.

"They were incredible throughout the process and I'm so proud of them. I'm also grateful for all the parent volunteers that help us on the trip and my assistant director, Bryn Anstadt and student teacher, Jordan Ringold.

"This competition is annual and is considered the highest honor for a concert band," Burazer said.

"It is gratifying to know that this particular edition of the band has left their mark on the history of this school and our state plaque will hang in the band room for years to come," he said.