Madison Reporter

Eighth graders from Kromrey and Glacier Creek Middle Schools showcased their musical talents at the Beyond The Notes Music Festival, which took place in Wisconsin Dells. The event was held at the Great Wolf Lodge on April 9-10 and at the Kalahari Resort on May 22-23.

The festival featured nearly 5,000 students from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Illinois, participating in over 115 ensembles. Under the guidance of directors Rachael Billmann and Sue Mielke for choirs, and Kimberly Reynolds, Eric Solberg, Kristen Solom, and Anne Vanderbloemen for bands and orchestras, the eighth-grade students represented MCPASD with their performances.

Jason Fettig, Director of Bands at the University of Michigan, served as this year’s guest clinician. The festival offered free public performances by school ensembles and interactive clinics with guest clinicians. Students also had opportunities to enjoy activities at the resorts' water parks and adventure parks.

A new feature of this year's festival was the Rising Music Educators Program. This initiative allowed music education majors and educators in their first five years of teaching to collaborate with veteran clinicians. Beth Marshall from Pope Farm Elementary School participated in this program.

Beyond The Notes Music Festival aims to create transformative musical experiences that enhance young musicians' skills while supporting educators and advancing music education. More information is available on the festival's website.