PREECEVILLE — The Good Spirit School Division band hosted its annual awards concert at Sturgis Composite High School on June 16, featuring music steeped in tradition.
Nathan Seghers, band instructor, led the Grade 5/6, junior and senior divisions through various musical selections during the evening. Seghers spoke briefly on the highlights and accomplishments throughout the year.
“During this time of the year, I am filled with a mix of emotions. It's a bittersweet moment for me as a band teacher, as I get to witness the culmination of our musical journey together,” said Seghers.
Seeing his students grow as musicians fills him with immense pride and gratitude. Their passion for music, willingness to learn and grow, and their unwavering dedication have made the journey enjoyable.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to be their band teacher. I hope they have enjoyed their year as much as I have.
“I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the unwavering support of our parents, families, community and friends. Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our band program have been instrumental in our success. We are eternally grateful for your unwavering support,” he concluded.
The Grade 5/6 band performed a set from Across the Serengeti and Mechanical Monsters.
The Grade 7/8 band followed with performances of Celtic Air and Dance, After the Rain, and Priestess of Fire.
The senior band performed That Old Hound Dog Rag, The Rowan Tree, Blue Radiance, Rumba De La Tumba, and the theme music from Pirates of the Caribbean.
Awards acknowledged students in all band divisions:
Beginner (Grade 5) category:
- Sage Ward (Preeceville) — Most Improved Musician
- Max McLaughlin (Preeceville) — Peter Olineck Award for Best First-Year Band Student
- Lindy Romanchuk and Zia Dela Torre (Sturgis) — Canora Credit Union Sturgis Branch Most Promising Musician
Grade 6 category:
- Halen Scharfenberg (Canora) — Most Improved Musician
- Isabelle Kondratoff (Canora), David Halteman (Norquay), and Lucy Chorneyko (Norquay) — Most Outstanding Band Student
- Ally Scheller (Preeceville) — Most Promising Musician
Grade 7 category:
- Hutch Nelson (Norquay) — Most Improved Musician
- Eva Romanchuk (Sturgis) — Most Outstanding Musician
- Seth Propp and Greta Craig (Norquay) — Most Promising Musician
Grade 8 category:
- Sadie Bell (Preeceville) — Most Improved Musician
- Kyla Scheller, Briley Friday, and Hailey Spray (Preeceville) — Most Outstanding Musician
- Catherine Chorneyko (Norquay) — Most Promising Musician
Grade 9 category:
- Autumn Rose (Sturgis) — Most Improved Musician
- Maddy Dutchak (Canora) — Most Outstanding Musician
- Simon Craig (Canora) — Most Promising Musician
Grade 10 category:
- Luke Sandager (Preeceville) — Most Improved Musician
- Olivia Ivanochko (Preeceville) and Joseph Chorneyko (Norquay) — Most Outstanding Musician
- Brody Nelson (Norquay) — Most Promising Musician
Grade 11 category:
- Savannah Olson (Sturgis) — Most Improved Musician
- Yohan Quibod (Preeceville) — Most Outstanding Musician
Grade 12 category:
- Addison Danielson (Preeceville) — Most Improved Musician
- Maicey Scheller (Preeceville) — Most Outstanding Musician
- Chloe Pushyk (Canora) — Most Promising Musician
