Three Fauquier County schools have been recognized for their exceptional musical talents. Auburn Middle School and Kettle Run High School have been honored with the Virginia Music Educators Association's (VMEA) Blue Ribbon Award, and Liberty High School has been selected as a Virginia Honor Band by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA).

The Blue Ribbon Award is the highest award given to school music programs in Virginia and recognizes those who achieve excellence in band, orchestra, and choral performance. For a school to be considered for the Blue Ribbon, following an application process, the top-performing groups must perform two pieces from approved graded music lists. All disciplines in a school must receive a superior rating at assessment to qualify for the award.

The Virginia Honor Band recognition and award was establishment in conjunction with the state marching band festival. For a school to be considered for Honor Band, they must achieve superior ratings at the state marching festival and district concert festival.

Ladona Gorham, Instructional Supervisor for Advanced Programs and Fine Arts, emphasized the extraordinary efforts of both students and music educators, stating, “Our music programs are top notch. The dedication of both the staff and students is evidenced by the quality of their performances. They work hard, are passionate about music, and it shows.”

Additionally, Fauquier County Public Schools applauds the exceptional talent and dedication of the following students selected to participate in the All-Virginia Choir, All-Virginia Band, and All-Virginia Jazz Band.

 

All-Virginia Choir:

Jake Miller, Fauquier High School

Skylar Cruger, Auburn Middle School

Cami Lopez, Auburn Middle School

Christina Sowers, Kettle Run High School

Ariah Noble, Taylor Middle School

Lily Stucki, Taylor Middle School

Noah Hillstrom, Taylor Middle School

 

All-Virginia Band:

Victoria Barrett, Kettle Run High School

Julianna Carr, Liberty High School

 

All-Virginia Jazz Band:

Levi Pardy, Kettle Run High School

 

The complete lists of the 2024 VMEA Blue Ribbon Award Schools and 2024 VBODA Virginia Honor Bands, visit their respective websites.