DMS band competes at solo and ensemble contest

CHESTER - Du Quoin Middle School band students participated in the Illinois Grade School Music Association's (IGSMA) Solo and Ensemble contest this past Saturday. Hundreds of students from all over Southern Illinois competed in the music contest. Eight band students represented Du Quoin Middle School. Students began preparing for the contest in January. Their hard work and practice paid off.

Overall, the students took home three First division ratings, and five First Superior ratings.

Students earning a First rating were Grace Hill (flute), Dayton Hamilton (alto sax), and Reagan Dorsey (trombone).

Students that earned a First Superior rating were Mackenzie Jones (flute), Elijah Nehring (tenor sax), Hunter Ping (trumpet), Sam Vancil and Bella Ehler (percussion).

Special thanks to Marla Uhles and Barb Oney for working with and accompanying students since January. The Marching Warriors' next performance is this Saturday, April 6. The band will be competing at the IGSMA Organizational Full Band Contest hosted by Marion Junior High School.