BSHS Senior Music Awards

What does it take to be a fine musician? Is it studying hard in the repertoire of music? Is it dedication to practice and the craft of music making? Is it focusing on solid comradery, in leading the effort to unify the ensemble, creating a stronger group harmony? For all musicians, each one of these factors matters immensely. Without one or the other, it can be hard for any musician to develop to the greatest potential possible. This year, I would like to recognize three seniors that through the course of the year have shown true support and focus for their craft. These three have proven true mastery in music as well as strong leadership qualities that will allow them to succeed in their life's journey.

The John Philip Sousa Award is an award to a student that has shown exemplary talents and skill in band as well as leadership. John Philip Sousa was known as the King of Marches and studied several different instruments at a young age. He is considered one of America's finest composers and bandmasters, and this award is given to students that match his intense dedication and leadership. I am giving this award to Audrey Sipler. Audrey - your skill on flute and piccolo is absolutely superb. Your talent on other instruments shows just how much music means to you in your life. In addition, throughout the year, I have seen your ability to lead and take charge, through your dance classes as well as in the classroom with the other flutes and band when I am not there. No matter what you choose to do in your life, I know without question that you will excel. It has been an outstanding honor to be your teacher, even though our time was short. Let this award serve as a reminder to keep pushing yourself to be the greatest musician, the greatest artist, and the greatest person you can be!

The National School Choral Award is an award given to a student that has shown incredible skill in vocal performance and dedication to mastery of voice. Though we all learn how to speak and sing at a young age, in order to become proficient at voice requires heavy amounts of practice through not only the knowledge of one's own language and inflections, but in all languages. In addition, a vocal master must also be able to lead in a choir, guiding others to help in correct pitch, tone, and blend. I am giving this award to Hope Gasvoda. Hope - your ability as a singer is unrivaled. It is incredible how confident and careful you are in your ability to master not just voice but clarinet as well. You show every day your incredible talents and I see so many look up to you for guidance. Your constant striving to challenge yourself musically is inspirational and I hope to continue to hear about your successes in the future. I did not have the honor to get to know you long, but it was obvious from day one your high talent, potential, and leadership. Let this award remind you of the high bar you have set for yourself as a person and as a musician; keep pushing the envelope and strive for greatness!

The Arion Award is a unique award given to a student that shows phenomenal musicality in all forms of music. The Arion Award was established in 1948 to give national recognition to senior class members chosen by their schools for outstanding achievement in band, orchestra, or chorus. Students who receive the Arion Award attain both high academic and community standing. I am giving this award to Erin Taylor. Erin - from the beginning of the year, I noticed your strong ability and commitment in music. Your talent as a singer and as a violinist is incredible and your ability to pass this on to the youngest of us shows how far you have come in your musical career. I have no doubt that your ability with violin and your confidence as a singer will take you extremely far no matter your choice in life. It has been a truly wonderful honor to get to see you sing, perform, and teach this past year and I cannot wait to hear about your future accolades. Let this award remind you to continue that confidence in music, in teaching, and beyond.