May was full of firsts for the Bishop McGann-Mercy music program.
First, the school’s Jazz Ensemble placed first at the Music in the Parks Festival at Six Flags in New Jersey by receiving a superior rating and an overall score of 94 out of 100. It was the third time the band attended the festival, but the first time it received a superior rating.
Then over Memorial Day Weekend, the school’s Voices of Mercy Chamber Choir hit the road and visited Busch Gardens in Virginia, competing for the first time in another Music in the Parks Festival. The choir took first place in its division and won best overall high school choir at the competition, also earning a superior rating.
These festivals also marked the first time McGann-Mercy had soloists recognized for their performances.
Senior Dale Kelly, a member of the Jazz Ensemble, was recognized as one of the top three outstanding soloists of the entire festival, which had over 1,000 participants. He was also honored as an outstanding instrumental soloist.
Senior Grace Lukachinski received an award for outstanding vocal soloist.
Photo Caption: The Bishop McGann-Mercy High School’s Jazz Ensemble posing with their first place trophy. (Credit: Courtesy)