One of more fun and exciting aspects of the Midwest performance is having the chance to invited different guest conductors for the concert. I tried, as best I could, to hold off, really I did. Selfishly (although justifiably so I...
Tonight was a nice night. Our school board passed a resolution honoring the Symphonic Band for all of their accomplishments this year. Almost all of the Symphonic Band and their parents were on hand as the Board read the resolution...
At this evenings school board meeting, the McCracken Middle School Symphonic Band was recognized by the Board of Education. WHEREAS, Skokie School District 73.5 enjoys a long tradition of musical excellence that extends beyond 40 years, and WHEREAS, the members...
Congratulations to the McCracken Middle School Symphonic for their wonderful performance at the University of Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival and their selection as the Honor Band for the middle school division. As Honor Band, the Symphonic Band receives an...
It starts (and ends) with the repertoire. I firmly believe that a big portion of our success is due to the repertoire we perform…both quality and quantity. Most band, orchestra, and choir directors would agree that selecting our repertoire is...
Welcome to the continued documentation of my nervous breakdown. That’s not completely the truth, although I’ve certainly had my moments…which won’t surprise anyone who knows me. I’m over the top most of the time anyway. In this case, though, I’m...
Nicole, 8th grade, flute and piccolo: At morning band rehearsal Mr. De Stefano told the band that the Midwest letter might come. As afternoon band practice came close, my friends and I got extremely anxious. We all walked into the...
Congratulations to the McCracken Middle School’s 7th Grade Swing Choir, 8th Grade Swing Choir, and Symphonic Band. Each ensemble was selected as an “Honors Ensemble” at the Illinois Grade School Music Association State Festival. This is the 5th consecutive year...
Thank you to the many McCracken parents who donated their time and talents to host the IGSMA State Contest this weekend. Everything went extremely smoothly. Hosting an event of this size would not be possible without the wonderful support we...
From Abigail, an eighth grade clarinetist: It was April 4, 2006. I was laying near death on the couch in my living room being sick with the stomach flu. I hadn’t gotten off my couch for the past 24 hours....