For the first time in school history, the Keefer Crossing Middle School Wind Ensemble was recognized as a National Winner of the 2024 Mark of Excellence Wind Band Honors in Class AA. 

The Mark of Excellence, a project organized by The Foundation for Music Education, recognizes exceptional performances by high school and middle school bands, choirs, and orchestras from across the United States. To enter the contest, bands across the country submitted performance recordings to be evaluated by a prestigious panel of judges. Bands placing in the top 25% were recognized as National winners. Last year, the project received 450 entries.  

Earning this recognition has been a huge accomplishment for the KCMS Wind Ensemble, and according to band teacher, Monica Hester, is the product of five years of growth. 

“All of the students that have come before our 2023-2024 Wind Ensemble played a part in getting us here,” Hester said. “Every year, we have raised the standard and our students have stepped up to every new challenge. This accomplishment represents all the growth that has been made within our band program since 2020.”

To compete for this award, bands must enter two selections of music, with higher consideration given to those who choose music of appropriate difficulty for the school classification. Level one judges listen to the submitted recordings and provide a live critique with written commentary. The top 50% of these recordings advance to level two. Level two judges then select the top 25% as the National winners. 

In order to prepare for the competition, the Wind Ensemble worked on every detail of their music to make it as unique as possible. The music chosen connected with students on a deeper level, making it more enjoyable for students and enhancing their performance. 

Earning this distinction has not only been a great accomplishment for the students, but for the band teachers as well. 

“Earning this distinction is surreal for all of us,” Hester said. “We have never been prouder of our kids. We are grateful for the students that we have worked with since 2020 that trusted us and put the work into helping our band program become what it is today.”

According to Ms. Hester, the impact of this award will benefit the KCMS band for years to come. 

“Having our students be named as a National Winner shows our students that hard work and determination is enough to help achieve what might seem like an unattainable dream,” Hester said. “This award will forever memorialize the KCMS band program and the drive our students have had to be recognized amongst the best programs in the state and country.”