All-City Middle School and NBHS Jazz bands both take first place at ‘Music In The Parks’ festival

The All-City Middle School Band, led by Matthew Pacheco and Tim Mason, came in 1st Place in the Concert Band Middle School Division AA. The All-City Middle School Band received a ranking of ‘Excellent’ from the judges for their performance.

In addition, for the first time ever the All-City Middle School Band received another award, Best Overall, in the middle school concert bands division.

The New Bedford High School Jazz Band, led by Mark Souza, came in 1st Place in its division. The Jazz Band was ranked ‘Superior,’ the highest possible ranking at the festival.

“Our music department continues to embody excellence as we build a truly excellent school system, and it is encouraging to see that our student musicians provide examples of that excellence. Every day, with their hard work, our students are letting the rest of the state and region know that New Bedford is on the rise,” said Superintendent Pia Durkin.

“These high-caliber musical ensembles continue to be positive ambassadors for our city and role models for younger generations of instrumental students. We applaud the students and teachers for this recognition of their dedication and teamwork,” said Director of Fine Arts, Kerri Quinlan-Zhou.

For those who wish to hear these outstanding musicians, the All-City Middle School Concert Band will be joined by the All-City Select Choir, All-City Dance Ensemble, All-City Junior Show Choir, All-City Junior Honor Band, All-City String Orchestra, Middle School Beginner Strings and the NBHS Jazz Combo and Brass Quintet for a special concert on Tuesday, May 26 at 7 p.m. at New Bedford High School, 230 Hathaway Boulevard. Suggested donation is $5 from adults with all proceeds going directly to these programs.

For more information about the visual or performing arts in the New Bedford Public Schools contact Kerri Quinlan-Zhou at 508-997-4511 ext. 3352.