On Saturday, March 4, Pana Band and Choir students participated in the IHSA Solo and Ensemble Contest at Central A&M High School in Moweaqua.  Several solo and group selections were prepared over the past few months and judged on educational criteria.  Students then received a rating along with comments to help them improve in their musicianship.  It was a very successful and empowering day for the young musicians.

Earning Division 2 (Excellent) ratings were vocal soloists Sierra Ammons, Nicole Arkebauer, and French horn soloist Liberty Law.  Soloists earning Division 1 (Superior) ratings were trumpet soloist John Berns and vocal soloists John Berns (perfect score), Aaliyah Cooks, Gabriella Heinrich, and Emma Stephens,  Also earning Division 1 ratings were three ensembles:  "For Good", a duet sung by Gabriella Heinrich and Emma Stephens; "Goin' Home", a bass trio sung by John Berns, Damion Pizzo, Jeffrey Schmidt, and ; and "Keep Your Lamps", a treble ensemble sung by Sierra Ammons, Nicole Arkebauer, Madison Carter, Aaliyah Cooks, Gabriella Heinrich, Alyssa Jones, Paige Moss, Alexis Smith, and Emma Stephens.

Directors Mrs. Angi Chase and Mr. Tony Hicks are very proud of how these young musicians represented the Pana Music Department and invite the public to their next performance, their Music in Our Schools Concert on Thursday, March 9 at 7:00pm in the Pana High School Gym!

Pictured (L-R) are the Pana High School Solo and Ensemble Participants:  Back row:  Phoenix Nance, Nicole Arkebauer, Alyssa Jones, Alexis Smith, Jeffrey Schmidt, John Berns.  Front Row Standing:  Paige Moss, Abigail Cline, Aaliyah Cooks, Madison Carter, Liberty Law, Damion Pizzo, Emma Stephens, Mrs. Angela Chase