Congratulations! Du Quoin Middle School band takes first place at Murphysboro; Spring concert 2 p.m. on May 4 in Hibbs Auditorium

Saturday, April 4 the Du Quoin Middle School Band competed at the annual Illinois Grade School Music Association's organizational contest held at Murphysboro Middle School. The 54-member band received a first rating by all three judges. They performed a selection of three pieces of contrasting styles. The band opened competition with a march entitled 'March from First Suite for Military Band' originally composed by Gustav Holst and arranged by Michael Story. Their second selection was a slower ballad titled 'Too Beautiful for Words' by Rob Grice. Their final piece was a piece entitled 'Encanto' by Robert W. Smith. The band has been working towards the contest since January. Their time and effort paid off on Saturday. The band's next performance is the annual Spring Concert on Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m. along with the beginning band and high school band. The concert will be held at the Du Quoin High School auditorium.