Posted May 11, 2007

The Hadley String Orchestra, directed by Georgia Alemis, and the Hadley Symphonic Band, Directed by Don Crews, were recently awarded Illinois Grade School Music Association (IGSMA) Honor Status. The Hadley String Orchestra was the only orchestra selected for this award in the state. The Hadley Symphonic Band was one of two bands selected for this award in the state.

The Symphonic Band also performed at the Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival sponsored by the University of Illinois. This was the 15th out of 16 years that the band has been invited to this highly prestigious and competitive competition; during these years, Hadley bands have won the competition four times. Band and orchestra students work hard to meet the traditionally high standards of Hadley musicianship, practicing as a unit before school and participating in group lessons during the day. In addition, most take individual lessons as well.