For the first time in Fairfax High’s history, the school band’s Wind Ensemble was chosen to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) convention. This year’s event was held Friday, Nov. 22, at The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va.

To be considered for selection, the band had to submit a recording in May and was then evaluated against all other entries. The top three or four high schools and middle schools from around Virginia were then chosen to perform.

At the recent convention, Fairfax High’s Wind Ensemble gave a 45-minute performance in front of most of the state’s music teachers. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for the exposure of our program,” said Assistant Principal Maureen Keck. “The rigor of putting that much music together so early in the year – and during marching band season – has truly helped push our musicianship and talents to the next level.”

“The music our wind ensemble prepared for the VMEA focused mainly on newer music, with varying difficulties, so they could share a variety of great music with the directors in attendance,” she continued. “Our Wind Ensemble students have definitely risen to the challenge and presented a musically rewarding experience for all.”