Castleton University’s Music Department will welcome nearly 250 talented students from schools in Vermont, New York, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts to campus for the ninth annual High School Honors Festival on Jan. 25.
"For many of these high school students, this is a unique opportunity for them to perform in a large choir or concert band," said Castleton's Director of Athletic Bands and Festival Coordinator Stephen Klepner. "We are proud to bring some of the best musicians in the region to Castleton for the day."
Students who participate in this distinguished event were nominated by their teachers last fall and range from first-year students to seniors. The festival includes a full day of activities for students and teachers alike, with instrumental and vocal students rehearsing with their respective conductors in the morning before breaking into smaller groups during the afternoon. The one-day event culminates with a concert held in Casella Theater beginning at 7 p.m.
This year’s conductors include Sherrill Blodget, director of choral activities and music department chair at Castleton, and James Bennett, professor emeritus of music at Norwich University.
Blodget directs the University Chorale and Castleton Chamber Singers, teaches voice, conducting, and global music, while also serving as vocal director for the university’s musical theater productions. She was recently named the Vermont State Colleges Faculty Fellow for the 2018-19 academic year. Bennett has performed as principal trombonist for the Evansville Philharmonic in Indiana and with the Vermont Philharmonic Orchestra. He served as a college and high school band director for more than 40 years, including at the University of Evansville and University of Southern Maine.
Conductors are assisted by students in the Castleton's Music Education program.
"Our festival is mainly run by Castleton Music Education students. The festival is a product of their hard work and allows our students to develop hands-on skills that are directly related to their career," Klepner said. "Many of our students will use this experiential opportunity to network with local teachers and learn new teaching skills."
Tickets for the High School Honors Festival concert will be sold at the door ($8 for general admission and $5 for students and seniors).