High Plains celebrates 50 years

Chadron State College celebrated 50 years of the High Plains Band and Choir Festival Monday and Tuesday in Memorial Hall. 

“Many of this year’s participants are following in the footsteps of older siblings, parents, aunts, uncles, and even grandparents,” James Margetts, dean of essential studies and the school of liberal arts, said in a CSC press release. “A festival like this also doesn’t continue for 50 years without the support of hundreds of individual high school music teachers and their promotion of the values that those selected for participation in High Plains exemplify, such as hard work, persistence, bravery, and a passion for excellence.” 

There were 151 students from 26 Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming high schools and the high schools were assisted by CSC faculty and students throughout the two days.  

Memorial Hall was filled with music both days with rehearsals before the high school ensemble performed for the public, led by William K. Wakefield, guest conductor, at 5 p.m., Tuesday in Memorial Hall’s Auditorium. 

The week started with a soprano soloist Carol Perry with Bobby Pace at 7 p.m., Monday night.