The Platte-Geddes Percussion Ensemble has been invited to perform at the 2027 Bandmaster's Convention in Brookings, South Dakota in mid-February! Upon submitting two of their pieces this past spring to the South Dakota Bandmaster's selection committee, Platte-Geddes Percussion was chosen as one of the best in the state and will represent the Platte-Geddes School district in Brookings next spring.
The Platte-Geddes Music Department has a proud tradition of musical excellence and has been featured at the Bandmaster's Convention several times. Under the direction of Mr. Jeff Patzlaff, the Platte-Geddes High School Band was selected for the convention in 2009 and 2014. The 7th & 8th Grade band was also chosen in 2005. Under the direction of Karissa De Jager, the percussion ensemble will, for the first time, continue the proud Platte-Geddes tradition in performance at the convention.
Because the audition was in the area of percussion, the Platte-Geddes percussion students from next year's 6th grade all the way up to seniors in high school will have the opportunity to showcase their talent at this prestigious event. Performances will include grade level performances, small groups, and full ensemble performances, highlighting the different abilities of each age category and the progression of skill level and experience from 6th to 12th grade. Selections for the Bandmaster's Convention will include "Starfall" by James Vilseck, a piece that helped win the ensemble a spot in the convention and "Counting Stars" by Jens De Pauw - the piece that catalyzed the formation of the "Platte-Geddes Percussion" group a couple years ago!
The Percussion students are grateful to senior percussion students this past year, Addison Walstad and Nikki VanDerWerff, for their help in preparing the audition that made this opportunity a reality! The Platte-Geddes percussion student group has stood on the shoulders of upperclassmen with great leadership and wonderful commitment and character. A big thanks to these two students for their dedication to music and for using their gifts in service to their peers and their community!