Avondale Bands Receive Superior Ratings at State Festival

Avondale GATE Magnet School's Advanced Band, under the direction of Jacob Nurse, achieved a Division 1 Superior Rating from the Michigan School Band & Orchestra Association!

Our high school Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Michael Hejka, also received Superior(First Division) ratings from ALL four adjudicators.

Their performance featured two compositions:

• Star Ship, by Yukiko Nishimura, is a work inspired by the story of two star-crossed lovers - celestial beings who fell deeply in love but were forbidden to see each other except once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month. This day corresponds to Tanabata, the star festival held annually to celebrate lovers who can at last be together.

• Ruckus, by Randall Standridge, is a bold and aggressive work inspired and fusing jazz, rock, marching percussion, and symphonic styles, driven by heavy percussion and rhythmic intensity. It's loud. It's fast. And it's thrilling!

Our students gave an outstanding performance and exemplified maturity, pride, and artistry throughout the event! A special thank you to all of our band families for their continued support of their students. From lessons and rides to trailer hauling and booster involvement -every bit helps create the best possible experience for our students. The straight Division I ratings at State reflect both our students’ dedication and the continued growth of our band program. We are incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished. If you see any of these band members, please be sure to congratulate them!