Sparta High School participates in Festival Disney in Florida

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLA. — Students in the concert band, wind ensemble, symphony orchestra and philharmonic orchestra representing Sparta High School took part in Festival Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort, held from March 29 to 31. “It is, without a doubt, the best festival I have attended, and this is my 18th year of traveling with the choirs,” said Michael Ehrlich, choral director, W.T. Woodson High School. “From the start, everyone I dealt with was very friendly, helpful, and accommodating. It is apparent that Festival Disney wants the students and their directors to have a positive experience.” The festival series schedule included two days of adjudicated performances, where ensembles received written and recorded feedback from music educators from around the nation. At the conclusion of the event, the students took part in the Festival Disney Awards Ceremony, where all ensembles received an exclusive Festival Disney Award and each member of the ensembles received a Festival Disney Medal. Competing groups were awarded Best in Class and Festival Disney Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards. Prior to the event, the director selected the group’s classification and one of three adjudication categories. Categories included Competition - where groups are rated and ranked for the top awards; Ratings Only - where the ensemble is awarded a rating, but not a ranking; and Comments Only - where the group receives only written and verbal feedback. Immediately following their performance, concert ensembles participated in a feedback clinic with one of the adjudicators. “The adjudicators for the festival were highly qualified. Their onstage clinic was not only helpful, but it was done in a positive manner,” observed Ehrlich. “All of my students enjoyed the experience, and so did I. They not only reinforced things that I’ve been teaching, but brought new ideas and approaches to their singing. I came away with several new techniques to use in rehearsals.” Festival Disney, open to junior, middle and high school music groups, is part of the Walt Disney Performing Arts Programs, whic offer instrumental, vocal and dance groups the opportunity to learn, perform and celebrate at the Walt Disney World Resort. For more information, log on to www.festivaldisney.com or call 1-800-603-0552.