Oak Park High School’s music program went to Whittier High School for a Music Festival on March 13 and 14. The wind ensemble, wind symphony, concert band and strings each performed for a panel of judges comprised of current and former educators.

The performance included a sight-reading portion and a prepared piece. The wind ensemble, wind symphony and strings were given superior – the highest possible rating – and the concert band was given excellent  – the second highest possible rating. 

“The auditorium was absolutely incredible,” freshman trumpet player Oliver Ventura wrote to the Talon. “It was straight out of a movie with the carved-in design and balcony seats. All the other bands were supportive and I had a really great time being there.”  

The festival went on for two days with wind symphony and wind ensemble playing the first day and concert band and string playing the second, which allowed the students the opportunity to watch and interact with other high schools. 

“Everyone was actually super nice and really friendly because we know how it feels to be playing in front of judges and other schools,” sophomore violin player Anona Nori said.

Following the music festival, they received the judge’s scores and focused on what they could improve on next time. 

“We were sent recordings from the judges critiquing us and giving us good feedback, which we listened to and took notes on,” sophomore flute player Anika Amladi said. “Then our teacher, Mr. Borquez, told us what we should continue to work on and implement into our new pieces.”

Their next performance will be part of the Oak Park Music Fest Finale Concert on April 7. If anyone has an opportunity to watch, the department strongly encourages it.

“Being able to hear orchestra without using your phone or putting in earbuds is just so relaxing,” Ventura wrote. “I also think that it is a great opportunity to meet new people who also enjoy music. But, if you haven’t listened to live music before, then I highly recommend it.”

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