Last week was state assessments for Band students where each class is graded on a scale of 1-5, 1 being perfect, based on what they learned throughout the year. This year, state assessments for our county were conducted at Rock Ridge High School. There is a panel of judges to grade the band’s sight reading abilities and a panel of three judges to grade three prepared pieces that were given in advance. Sree Pentapati, a band two student, has been practicing the three prepared pieces since December. Two are regular pieces and one is meant to showcase their marching abilities. According to Pentapati, they learn, review, and improve their pieces in sections. Each band is given pieces under their skill level too. For example, bands learning to play level five pieces play level three pieces for the state assessments.
“Even though there were so many snow days, making us miss morning rehearsals and class time,” Pentapati said. “I’m proud of my bandmates for improving despite the challenges.”
