Springbrook Middle School music program shines at Michigan State Capitol performance

Brad Heineman, The Daily Telegram
·3 min read
The Springbrook Middle School eighth grade band, pictured, was one of two musical groups that represented Adrian Public Schools in May during annual performances at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. Springbrook’s orchestra and its eight-grade band performed at the Michigan State Capitol Spring Music Program, which has been in place for a century and annually invites school music groups to showcase their talents in front of the Capitol building steps.

ADRIAN — The music program at Springbrook Middle School in Adrian was on full display this spring.

One of the ventures highlighted by the music program was its appearance at the Michigan State Capitol Spring Music Program. Springbrook’s orchestra and its eight grade band performed at the Capitol in the music program which has been in place for a century and annually invites school music groups to showcase their talents in front of the Capitol building in Lansing during May.

The day started with an experience for the students as they walked on the House of Representatives floor and conversed with state Rep. Dale Zorn, R-Onsted.

“Witnessing the inner workings of our government firsthand and gaining valuable insights into the democratic process was an unforgettable experience for the students,” a news release from Adrian Public Schools said.

The day's highlight came when Springbrook’s eighth grade band and orchestra took the stage in front of the Capitol building. The band and orchestra’s “musical prowess” captivated the audience with a performance of musical selections chosen by the students, the release said.

"As a representative of Adrian Public Schools, I couldn't be prouder of our students," Sheri Powers, Springbrook band teacher, said in the release. "Their unwavering dedication to their craft, evident in their musical performance, is truly commendable. But equally impressive is their exemplary behavior and the display of our school's core values, as they exemplified Maple Pride throughout the day."

Orchestra teacher Lorri Wittenkeller also said the middle school’s seventh and eighth grade orchestra students performed exceptionally well at the Capitol, and that “playing for an audience of students and families visiting the Capitol that day was a wonderful experience.”

Adrian Superintendent Nate Parker added his admiration for the student’s musical achievements saying in the district’s release that Springbrook’s orchestra and eighth grade band’s participation in the Capitol Spring Music Program showcases the dedication of Adrian’s educators and the “exceptional talent with our community.” Parker, before becoming Adrian’s superintendent in 2022, was Springbrook’s principal.

“Adrian Public Schools is committed to providing outstanding opportunities for our students to showcase their skills and foster personal and artistic growth,” he said. “The success of our students at this event is a testament to the high caliber of education and the limitless potential that Adrian Public Schools offers. We will continue to support and encourage our students in their artistic endeavors, helping them build a strong foundation for a successful future."

The success of the middle school music students did not stop with the Capitol performance.

A number of band and orchestra students performed at Solo and Ensemble festivals this spring. Students who performed at the state-level events where they are evaluated by other music educators earned high marks and positive feedback.

To recognize the students for their quality showings at Solo and Ensemble, students performed song selections during the Adrian Public Schools Board of Education meeting May 22. A flute duet and violin duet were performed, and nine total students earned certificates of appreciation from the school board.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Springbrook Middle School Music Program Shines at Michigan State Capitol