Posted on Apr 22, 2021
 

Mineral Wells Rotarians on Wednesday heard about the recent accomplishments of two of Mineral Wells High School's Fine Arts programs – the chorus and band departments.

A year of COVID slowed, but didn't halt or deter the musicians and singers in those groups, led by MWHS Chorus Director Jeanne Baker, pictured above center, and Band Director Elton Ball, right. They are shown with the day's Rotary program chair, Scott Elder, who also serves as a Mineral Wells ISD trustee.

Both programs saw overall and individual successes this year, including winning sweepstakes honors at UIL competitions for unanimous superior ratings in their respective performances.

As a central school within the large UIL district, Mineral Wells ISD hosted various band and chorale district and area contests, bringing dozens of schools and performance groups to the school and town to compete and perform. Despite the ongoing pandemic, there were no reported significant issues related to the performances and competitions.

Ball told a story of perseverance for the MWHS Marching Band. During its UIL performance, the band went last since it was the home and host school. But it got late, the Ram Stadium lights turned off in the middle of its performance. Initially stunned, the drum majors and band knew the show must go on, so they completed their routine for some seven minutes in the dark and received superior ratings from the judges.

The MWHS Band Department includes the Mighty Ram Marching Band, Concert Bands, Winter Drum Line, Winterguard and Jazz Band.

Baker told of several chorale students who competed for All-Region and All-State Choir, with senior Mackenzie Lawhon earning All-State Choir inclusion.

MWHS Choirs, ensembles and soloists can be seen and heard performing at events throughout the year, from singing the National Anthem at home sporting contests to performing at events such as the Tree of Angels and the National Vietnam War Museum Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

The high school's Fine Arts program includes Drama and Arts departments.

Thank you Jeanne and Elton for the interesting program and congratulations on the success of your respective students and performers.