Ron Modell, legendary Professor of Music (retired) from Northern Illinois University, spent time on Thursday, October 23, visiting music classes at both Downers Grove North and South High Schools. He listened to the bands at both schools and offered musical feedback for students and faculty.
Professor Modell is known around the world as one of the most successful music educators of all time, having developed the N.I.U. jazz program into an internationally acclaimed band. Prior to his appointment at N.I.U., Mr. Modell played trumpet in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
59 student musicians from Downers GroveNorthHigh School were selected, by competitive audition, to the 2008 Illinois Music Educator’s Association District Band, Choir, Orchestra and Jazz Band.Auditions were held on Tuesday, October 14, at CarlSandburgHigh School.The top placing scores were selected for participation in the District Music Festivals, to be held during the month of November.
“To my knowledge, this is the largest number of North High students recognized by the IMEA in our school’s history,” said Brayer Teague, Fine Arts Department Chairperson.“All of our students who auditioned worked very hard and competed against stiff competition.Selection to these ensembles is a real honor for both them, and our school. We are looking forward to hearing great performances at the District Music Festival next month.”
North High School endeavors to provide an enriching, vibrant, multidisciplinary environment for the study, creation, and presentation of the Fine Arts.
