CDA Band and Choir Students Participate in TPSMEA All State Clinic and Concert!
On January25 -27, the 2018 Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA) All State bands, choir and orchestra met in Richardson for three days of intense rehearsal and a final performance. Students from private schools all across Texas auditioned for this prestigious event with CDA taking 18 qualifiers. CDA had 15 band students, 2 choir students and 1 orchestra student qualify to attend.
The band had two musicians recognized during the performance as four-year qualifiers: John Mark Davis and Claire Swank. In addition, Paul Lee made 1st chair clarinet and Grace Kendall made 1st chair flute! They both played several beautiful solos with the 80 piece All State band. Paul was featured on one of the band pieces and did a magnificent job!
The demanding weekend, under the instruction of Texas A&M Commerce professor Phillip Clements (concert band) and University of Texas Arlington professor Dan Cavanagh (jazz band), University of North Alabama professor Daniel Stevens (orchestra), and Michigan State University professor Dr. Sandra Snow (choir) concluded with a final performance at the Eisemann Center. Parents, family, and friends enjoyed some beautiful music!
Elizabeth Bowen, CDA band director, and Kerry Hillier, CDA choir director, both were so proud of their students as they used their talents, commitment, and heart to make music that glorifies almighty God. They are a special group that loves and supports each other while always seeking excellence.
Photo of CDA All State qualifiers:
Front Row, L-R: Mrs. Elizabeth Bowen, Claire Swank *, Caroline Crocker, Noelle Smurawa, Brendon Kofink, Ethan Joseph, Joanna Lee, Mrs. Kerry Hillier
Second Row, L-R: Caleb Hemsworth, Taylor Brower, Paul Lee, Seth Livingston, Melissa Pearson, AnnaMarie Miller
Third Row, L-R: John Mark Davis*, Drake Livingston, Grant Hoffmann, Johann Rajadurai, Grace Kendall
(not pictured – Alec Mathews)
* Four year All State qualifier
