Michigan City Area Schools Music Programs Shine with Recent Successes
The Michigan City Area Schools (MCAS) music departments have experienced a remarkable spring semester, marked by numerous achievements and honors for students and educators alike. From vocal jazz ensembles to solo and ensemble competitions, and even performances in collegiate settings, MCAS students are making their mark on the Indiana music scene.
Vocal Jazz Ensemble Achieves Historic Gold Rating
The newly formed Vocal Jazz ensemble from Michigan City High School (MCHS) received a Gold rating from all three judges at the ISSMA Vocal Jazz competition held at Portage High School on March 7, 2026. This marks the first time in school history that the ensemble has achieved this distinction. Source
ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Success
Several MCHS choir and band students advanced to the state level of ISSMA Solo and Ensemble competitions following strong regional performances. The majority of participants earned Gold ratings and/or highest distinction. Source
Choral Students Excel at Perry Meridian High School
On February 21, 2026, eleven MCHS choral students competed at Perry Meridian High School in Indianapolis. Results included:
- Madisyn Moye and Jen Serrano: Silver Ratings
- Paige Merrill, Maddy Parry, and Ashlynn Bright: Gold Ratings
- Younha Seppyes: Gold Rating with Distinction
- Ensemble (Alyssa Tracy, Ashlynn Bright, Paige Merrill, Maddy Parry, Ella Hefner, Younha Seppyes, Amarah Spikes, Jasmine Ford, and Nia Wilkins): Gold Rating
Band Students Shine in Indianapolis
The following weekend, February 28, 2026, MCHS band students competed at various high schools in Indianapolis, achieving impressive results:
- Lia Black (Violin), Jada Mckendree (Clarinet), and Weston Smith (Trombone): Gold with Distinction
- Andrew Deleon (Trumpet), Torey Morris (Bass Clarinet), Makenna Nowatzke (Tenor Sax), Kenneth Oviatt (Alto Sax), Josh Pratt (Bass Clarinet), and Julianna Wolford (Clarinet): Gold
- Arianna Lemons (Alto Sax): Silver
- Mallet Trio (Jimmy Biela, Rhianna Fisher, and Makayla Sardon): Gold with Distinction and a perfect score
- Mixed Woodwind Trio (Jada Mckendree, Makenna Nowatzke, and Torey Morris): Gold with Distinction
- Trombone Trio (Katie Branch, Weston Smith, and David Symons): Gold with Distinction
- Sax Quartet (Arianna Lemons, Jada Mckendree, Makenna Nowatzke, and Kenneth Oviatt): Silver
- Mixed Woodwind Ensemble (Arianna Lemons, Josh Pratt, Athena Roberts, and Julianna Wolford): Silver
band students scored 12 Golds and 3 Silver awards. Source
Beyond Competition: Collegiate Performances and Community Engagement
The Howlin’ Horns Pep Band, comprised of approximately 50 students and 14 middle schoolers, performed at Calumet College of St. Joseph and was invited to play at a Bethel University basketball game. Source
Middle School Music Programs Receive Support
Both the Barker and Krueger middle school programs received a Middle School Music Grant from the Peter R. Marsh Foundation, supporting student performances for senior audiences and fostering community connections. This funding will be used to purchase new music and choral supplies. Source
Krueger Middle School Band Earns Gold with Distinction
On March 14, 2026, the Krueger Middle School Band received a Gold with Distinction in the ISSMA JME (Junior/Middle School/Elementary) Group IV Competition. Source
“Circle the State With Song” Participation
Students from Barker, Krueger, Joy, and Pine Elementary schools participated in “Circle the State With Song” on February 28, 2026, at Hebron High School. Barker 7th grader Addy Moore was selected to present the opening solo of the finale, “You Will Be Found.” Source
These achievements demonstrate the dedication of MCAS students and educators to musical excellence. For more updates, follow Michigan City Area Schools Music on Facebook! Source