The Ohio Music Education Association Large Group Adjudicated Event on March 6 brought an exciting milestone for the Orrville High School Band. Competing at Akron Firestone CLC, the band earned the highest possible rating—a Superior (I)—and secured its place at the state level.
This accomplishment reflects both musical excellence and a deep commitment to growth. At the regional event, ensembles are evaluated by four judges: three assess the prepared stage performance of selected pieces, while a fourth evaluates the group during a challenging sight-reading component. In sight reading, students are given a brand-new piece of music they have never seen before. They receive four minutes to study the music independently, followed by four minutes with direction from their conductor—without playing a single note during that time. Afterward, they perform the piece in its entirety for a final adjudicated score.
Earning a Superior rating is the only way to advance. For the Orrville band, qualifying for state is especially meaningful. After years of not participating, 2025 marked the program’s first state qualification in approximately 20 years—and now, they are returning for a second consecutive year.
The state performance will take place at GlenOak High School on May 2 at 9:00 a.m., where the band will again perform for adjudicators using a rigorous rubric. Unlike athletic competitions, bands are not ranked against each other; instead, they are scored individually, with ratings ranging from I (Superior) to V.
Preparation for this level of performance goes far beyond the stage. Students have spent months refining their musicality, working on dynamics, tone, and ensemble cohesion. They have also benefited from guest clinicians from neighboring universities, elevating their performance to a new level.
Students shared what this achievement means to them:
“Attending the OMEA Large Group competition and qualifying for States during these past two years has been a truly great experience… our journey to States has helped develop us into a more skilled, aware, and unified ensemble. For me, this is the most rewarding thing about attending the OMEA Large Group event. It has, and will continue to help shape and sharpen the Orrville High School Band into the model of ‘pride and excellence’ that we always strive to be.”
— Charlie Lorson
“Districts and states mean a lot to me. To me, it means that we are representing our school at the highest level.”
— Brayden Moser
“For me, having the chance to attend states is a bittersweet, poignant time. As a senior, being at states compels me to reminisce over my many memories throughout band… the wonderful friends I have made, the amazing opportunities I have been given, and the incredibly talented instrumentalists that I have met have touched my heart and my mind.”
— Jessie Smith
As the band prepares for state competition, they will take on an additional challenge—learning and performing a new required piece within a short 5–6 week window. This process continues to push students to grow as musicians while strengthening the ensemble's unity.
The band’s success also reflects the leadership and dedication of Band Director Elyse Cummings, whose guidance has helped reestablish Orrville’s participation in OMEA Large Group competition and build momentum within the program. Through focused rehearsals, high expectations, and meaningful performance opportunities, Mrs. Cummings has helped students grow both individually and as a unified ensemble.
The Orrville High School Band’s success is a testament to the dedication of its students, the leadership of its director, and the support of the school community. We wish them the best as they represent Orrville with pride and excellence at the state level.