Earlier this year, Gorham Middle School (GMS) musicians celebrated their instrumental and vocal talent at the 2020 Maine Music Educators Association District 1 Honors Band and Chorus Festivals.

On February 28 and 29, the 7th and 8th grade District 1 Honors Band and Honors Chorus came together for a weekend of music at South Portland Schools.

This year’s 7th and 8th grade Honors Chorus was directed by Thornton Academy choral director Catherine Murray while the 7th and 8th grade Honors Band had the opportunity to work with University of Southern Maine band director, Jackie Townsend.

Students auditioned in the fall to be accepted to the 7th and 8th grade Honors Festival and had an amazing weekend seeing old friends, making new friends, and creating beautiful music with students from all over Southern Maine.

On March 7, 6th graders from Southern Maine came together for the District 1 6th grade Honors Band and Chorus Festival at Gorham High School (GHS). Students from Cape Elizabeth, Westbrook, Sacopee Valley, Scarborough, Gorham, South Portland, and Bonny Eagle were nominated by their school band and choral directors to participate in the festival.

The Honors Chorus learned some fantastic music while working with guest conductor Heather Guilfoyle from Massabesic High School and the Honors Band had the privilege of working with the Maine Music Educators Association President, Ben Potvin. Both groups performed a wonderful concert for the public in the McCormack Performing Arts Center at GHS that afternoon.

There were many other music festivals and events scheduled for this school year that unfortunately have had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. It was fortunate to have had the opportunity for these two middle school honors festivals and concerts this year.

Congratulations to all GMS musicians who auditioned for, were nominated for, and participated in the 2020 Honors Festivals.