With Jenison students now on vacation and Christmas Day drawing closer, I’ve had some quiet moments to ponder how fortunate we were to have had the carpet rolled out, if you will, in preparation for this holiday.

The past two weeks have been packed with wonderful concerts at every level, starting at our elementary schools and being topped off at the high school. Each time I have the privilege of hearing our vocalists, choirs, bands, and orchestras, I am reminded of the high standards of our programs and the quality and dedication of our fine instructors.

These concerts also fill me with gratitude. We are entirely thankful to you, the community, for passing a bond that will one day allow our young musicians to perform at home rather than at an off-campus venue. While we have been blessed to have held our Christmas concerts at Fair Haven Ministries over the years, we look forward to a day when we will have a Performing Arts Center of our own.

…And that truly deserves an “Hallelujah”!

As the cast and crew of the spring musical will tell you, “anything goes” when it comes to love on the high seas!

Playing through Sunday afternoon at Jenison High School, Anything Goes is a Tony Award-winning production featuring the music of Cole Porter and enough dancing to keep the boat rocking and your toes tapping.

Mr. Todd Avery, directing his 40th show in Jenison since 1995, thrives on the lights and pre-show jitters. “As an actor, there’s no other place I feel more comfortable–it’s such a natural fit. I love to help kids feel the same thing and have fun in the process.”

Mr. Avery gives his thanks to Mr. Zamborsky, Mr. Scott, Mr. Dracht, and Mr. Veeneman for their tireless efforts converting the high school auditorium from a blank canvas to a two-story ship complete with a raised orchestra “pit”. Along with a crew of dedicated fathers, Mr. Avery estimates that more than 125 hours went into designing, building, and painting the set!

Preparing to grace the stage this week is a cast of forty students ready to shine. We had the opportunity to talk to three of the lead characters earlier this week and were inspired by their passion for this project.

Christian Reed is a senior playing Billy Crocker. Although he’s played football and has enjoyed the thrill that comes with working in front of crowds, Christian said being active in the school theater is a new kind of experience he’s come to love.

“Having played football, you start to think that there’s no other moment like being under the lights…but I found it again in theater. It gives me chills–I just love expressing myself on stage.”

Emily Ambs, also a senior, plays the role of Reno Sweeney, a woman pining for Billy’s attention (Christian’s character). Emily has long been a dancer and musician, but acting was a risk that was difficult for her to take. She tried out for her first play just last year, but now says it’s something she can’t imagine not doing.

“Adding acting to music and dance pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I’m so glad I did it. The best part has been all the new friends I’ve made; everybody’s so accepting in theater. It’s awesome.”

She adds that because of their families’ shared friendship, Mr. Avery is like a second father who’s given her the confidence to try new things. She credits him with her foray into acting and is grateful for the gentle push that helped her stretch her wings.

Playing British Lord Evelyn Oakleigh is junior Ben Avery. He shared that being involved in theater was not so much a risk for him as it was a coming home of sorts.

“For me theater is not about pushing me out of my comfort zone–it’s actually where I’m the most comfortable.”

Ben has already given thought to pursuing theater after graduation, astutely pointing out that stage work can prepare individuals for all kinds of real-world experiences by equipping them to work with others, improvise, problem solve, and think creatively.

Ben also appreciates deeply the way his father, Director Todd Avery, has inspired him to run headlong into acting without second guessing himself.  ”I was practically born here, ” he quipped, referring to Jenison’s stage, adding, “I’m very proud of my dad–I’ve always looked up to him.”

We’re proud of the entire cast and applaud the efforts of everyone who has given of themselves to make Anything Goes a reality this spring.

We hope you’ll join us in the audience for one of the remaining shows!

Thursday, March 22 – Saturday, March 24: shows at 7 pm

Sunday Matinee: 2:30 pm

Tickets are available at the door or by calling 457-6110

$10: adults, $8: students/senior citizens, $6: children under 10.

For those of us on the outside looking in, band might be reduced down to brass instruments, percussion, and woodwinds. Those of us on the outside may perceive that it’s centered around a new piece of music to master or a set of choreographed steps on the football field. We might assume that it’s “just a class” or “another extra-curricular activity.”

But trying to peg band solely as any one of those things would be an incomplete picture of something much richer and more meaningful going on behind the doors of Jenison Public Schools.

You see to those on the inside looking out, band is what you breathe. It’s the beat that sets your heart pumping. It’s in your blood.

And that means band is family.

This idea came alive when Mr. Zamborsky was asked to describe the best part of his job. He didn’t hesitate:

“Without a doubt, it’s the relationship with the kids.” He smiled and continued, “In high school bands particularly, but in band in general, there is a greater sense of community. It’s like a family; the kids who stick with the program and who have worked together — sometimes for seven years — are committed to each other and to the work that we’re doing. I really see mine as a special role, because other than parents or maybe a youth leader, I’m one of the main constants in their lives. We naturally become a family.”

Mr. Zamborsky directs Jenison High School students

The students at Jenison High School echo those sentiments resoundingly, explaining that while their teachers remain authority figures to them, they have become much more than that. They also were excited to share how the band program has shaped them as young people, building character traits that will follow them throughout their lives.

Junior Anthony Genovese explains, “I had the greatest experience in band! It helped me become a better person by teaching me hard work and determination.” Senior Shawn Nichols pointed out that the competitive nature of band helps them set goals and strive for excellence.

(L to R) Shawn Nichols, Kyle Fannon, Melissa Postema, Anthony Genovese

Mr. Zamborsky elaborates, “Marching band is the hardest thing many of them have ever done. The training — both physical and mental — is really tough, and the competitions are tough! It’s very rare to have to dedicate so much time to one thing at their age.”

But that dedication, tenacity, and hard work paid off in spades last November when the JPS Marching Band grabbed the title of State Champions, sending them on to Nationals where they advanced to the semi-finals. For the students, earning that distinction is still cherished as a favorite memory.

Shawn Nichols and Melissa Postema gushed over their experience at State, where they took first place for “Best General Effect” and “Best Visual,” winning for the first time since 2004.

Mr. York’s memory of the evening comes through the lens of a teacher letting the kids “pretty much run the show.” He likened the experience to letting a ball roll down a hill. “When the band hits the field during competitions, it’s all student-led, so it’s completely up to them. And likewise, they get to take it all in.”

Mr. Zamborsky is most proud of what the kids are able to do musically, and credits the collaboration within the band department for that success. He, Mr. York, and Mrs. Gembis are able to break kids up and give individual attention to those smaller groups because of thoughtful planning and teamwork. They’re flexible and cooperative, at times taking students to work in three separate rooms so they can receive specific training on small parts of the same piece.

It is this attention to detail that helps the band bloom and thrive.

Anthony and Melissa say there’s another ingredient to the band’s success, and that is the support and participation of the Jenision community. “We couldn’t do it without the people who believe in us!” they say.

Several students commented on how meaningful the small gestures are to them while they’re performing, like having parents pass out water bottles after football games and help run concessions or organize the boosters program. The community supports the hours of work that go into band camp, pre-band camp, post-band camp, and everything in between.

In short, they support. They cheer. They encourage.

Why?

Because that’s what family does for each other.

And that’s what band is.

Teachers, Leaders, Friends: Mr. York and Mr. Zamborsky

For those of you following the success of the Jenison Marching Band this fall, you may know that the MCBA (Michigan Competing Band Association) is divided into four “flights” based on school size. Jenison is in Flight II.

photo courtesy of Cindy Boss

Here are the Flight II results from the November 4, 2012 State Competition:

1. Jenison 89.3 (Best Music, Best Visual Performance, Best General Effect)
2. L’Anse Creuse 84.4
3. Southgate Anderson 79.3
4. Farmington Harrison 78.15
5. Farmington 78.0
6. Flushing 77.35
7. Hudsonville 74.4
7. South Lyon 74.4
9. Woodhaven 73.85
10. Wyandotte Roosevelt 73.2
11. Milford 69.9
12. Crestwood 69.4

This past weekend the Jenison High Marching Band marched into history when they seized the State Championship Title for the second time in as many years.

Performing the acclaimed, “Joan: Visionary, Warrior, Martyr, Saint,” based on the life of Joan of Arc, Jenison Band members out-scored the competition in all four areas of adjudication: Best Music, Best Visual Performance, and Best General Effect.

The show includes music from “King Arthur” and “The Prince of Egypt” by Hans Zimmer, “The Messenger” by Eric Serra, “The Kings Go Forth” by Edward Gregson, “March to the Scaffold” from Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique,” and Ravel’s “Pavane for a Dead Princess,” explained JHS Band teacher Dave Zamborsky.

Mr. Zamborsky and Mr. York will take their band to the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, IN today, where they will prepare to perform in the preliminary competition on Friday afternoon. If their performance qualifies them to move on to the Semifinals, they will play again on Saturday. The Semifinals pits the top 30 bands in the nation against each other for the coveted National Title.

All photos this week courtesy of Cindy Boss

Mr. Mike York shared his thoughts about some of his favorite memories from this fall.

“There are so many highlights throughout the season that it’s hard to pick just one, but I think that when I look back on this show, the first thing that will pop in to my mind is the dramatic performance by Sara Gehan as “Joan” during the burning at the stake scene. If there were Oscar Awards to hand out at marching band competitions, she would, hands down, be taking ALL of those home. This moment in the show has really become “the talk of the town” in the Michigan marching band world!”

Mr. Zamborsky explained why this year’s production is different:

“I think the show this year is very unique and special. It’s definitely the most emotionally appealing show we’ve done here at Jenison, and the response has been very positive. That emotional component has given us the opportunity to really emphasize to the students that a significant part of their role as great performers is creating a connection with their audience – making the audience feel completely engaged in their performance.

… Our students have a lot to be proud of – and we hope that the marching band program is a consistent source of pride for our school district and community members. But each season, we strive to raise our standards little by little, and it’s really great to see the kids work so hard to meet and even exceed those standards – and to set new standards for themselves personally and as a band.”

“One of the things that we emphasize with the band throughout the season is to be positive and healthy competitors. Our goal, first and foremost, is to push our practice and performance intensity to the threshold of our abilities – that’s how we judge our success. The awards and recognition are certainly nice, but reaching our full potential as performers is the only thing that we have total control over. When we  walk away from a performance saying that we gave absolutely everything we could, then and only then can we say we’ve been successful,” said Mr. York.

Congratulations to Mr. York, Mr. Zamborsky, and all the students and parents who give so much to make the Jenison Band program successful! We wish them the best of luck at Nationals and assure them that in our hearts, they’re already winners!

For a complete list of Flight II scores, click HERE.

Jenison Choirs are seeking to do more than send beautiful notes of Christmas joy into Fairhaven Church at this evening’s concert; they’re striving to gather coats, hats, and mittens for Grand Rapids’ Alpha Women’s Center. 

The Alpha Women’s Center is a community outreach that assists young women in crisis pregnancy situations or those who find themselves as young single mothers unable to adequately provide for their children. The 4,200 clients they serve report that one of their largest needs in the winter is warm clothing and snow gear for their children, and Jenison is honored to help fill that need!

We’re proud to report that since our “Coats from Choirs” project began on November 13, it has already taken in some 410 coats! The November 29 Culver’s benefit night was a tremendous support to our efforts and also brought in countless hats and mittens.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Waters

Tonight’s concert marks our final collection night and our goal is to far surpass 500 coats donated! We feel privileged to live in a generous community who considers the needs of others, and know that this year’s giving will be another indication of our compassion.

To all who have already given and to those who are planning to join us yet tonight, we thank you!

Jenison Junior High Christmas Choir Concert

8:15 pm

Fairhaven Church

Erasmus once said, “Concealed talent brings no reputation.”

If this is so, then the reverse must also be true. And next weekend, Mr. Steven Waters, Mr. Les Rowsey, and the Jenison Male Chorus will have the opportunity to prove it in front of hundreds of the brightest minds in music education.

(above) The JPS Male Chorus practices their performance pieces.

(above) For these students, practice makes perfect!

Each January, music teachers from around the state converge on Grand Rapids to attend break-out sessions, learn together, and listen to selected school choral performances. Doing so as a group helps to set and maintain a standard for excellence in music education while reaffirming philosophical standpoints in their field.

Due to their history of exemplary performances and overall reputation for talent and skill, the Michigan Music Conference has foregone the typical application process for the Jenison group and has invited the group to perform at next week’s meeting in Grand Rapids. Under normal circumstances, groups desiring to perform are required to submit an application and audio recording in order to be considered, but in this case, the Chorus’ reputation has garnered acceptance on its own.

Jenison Choirs at all levels have applied, submitted recordings, and have been accepted several times over the past three decades, however the opportunity to perform without going through this process is extremely rare. The male chorus group will be collaborating next week Friday, January 18, with Mr. Lon Beery, a conference coordinator, composer, arranger, and educator who will also present around the topic of changing male voices. His session is entitled, “Working with Middle School Men,” and will take place in the International Ballroom at the J.W. Marriott Hotel at 9:30 a.m.

We send hearty congratulations to Mr. Waters, Mr. Rowsey, their accompanists, and the outstanding group of young men who will so proudly represent Jenison Junior High and High School at the Michigan Music Conference!

Best of luck!

If you thought that brackets and championships were just for March Madness, you’d be wrong. Because while Mr. Zamborsky and Mr. Scott didn’t shoot hoops for these awards, the stakes and the honor that go along with them are just as high, and the applause from the crowd is just as loud.

We are thrilled to share that earlier this month, both Orchestra teacher Dan Scott and Band teacher Dave Zamborsky received word that they had been nominated by their peers and elected as District 10 Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA) Teachers of the Year! 

There are sixteen MSBOA districts in the State of Michigan, and Jenison lands in district 10 which is comprised of roughly 150-200 schools spanning from Northern Allegan to Lowell.

To draw a comparison between music education and athletics, these districts could be thought of as the OK Conferences for music. One distinguishing factor in this situation, however, is that our directors were identified as outstanding by their peers, and voted on to win Teachers of the Year.

“For me, that’s what means the most. I’m really flattered to have been chosen by my colleagues,” said Mr. Scott.

“Winning these accolades speaks volumes about the reputation of Jenison’s program,” added Mr. Zamborsky.

Pushing the significance of this honor to greater heights is the fact that no two teachers from the same school have ever won before! In fact, there are some districts in Michigan (typically the smaller ones) that vote only to honor either one band or one orchestra teacher, but not both.

This year changed everything when the MSBOA members voted to recognize the work of both a band and an orchestra instructor – and both from the same high school. This has never happened before!

“This award really highlights the well-roundedness of our entire program, both in band and in orchestra,” noted Mr. Zamborsky.

Moving forward, winners from all sixteen districts will go to the “state finals” on June 3, where three finalists from each category will be chosen to be presented to the MSBOA membership in the fall. Then, from December 2013 to January 2014, these same members will vote on one orchestra and one band teacher to be recognized –not just as superior in their district – but as exemplary in the state.  Results of the final voting will be made public on January 14, 2014.

If Mr. Zamborsky and Mr. Scott earn this recognition from their peers, they will have the opportunity to conduct the All-State Honors Band and Orchestra at the Michigan Youth Arts Festival in May 2014.

Please join me in congratulating these men on this unprecedented achievement! We are so lucky to have them both leading Jenison’s music program!

For 5th graders dreaming of playing the cello like Yo-Yo Ma or the violin like a Juilliard graduate, the annual fall orchestra sign-ups are the first step down a path that is limited only by their will to succeed.

While Jenison 6th graders are eligible for band and have their own fitting and instrument pairing evening, the opportunity to play in the Wildcat orchestra begins in 5th grade with an instrument rental and fitting in the junior high.

But orchestra teacher Carol Johnson explains that the journey to a music career actually begins at the end of 4th grade when she travels to each school with a selection of stringed instruments for the kids to hear and touch. Because this occurs right before summer vacation, students are given time to consider which instrument — if any — they’d like to play.

By the time September rolls around, those same students have begun 5th grade and have reached a decision with the help of their parents. They enter the cafeteria on a mission to find the best fit — and perhaps the best price — for their rental.

This year, three area rental companies were on-site for families to get acquainted with: Aaron’s Instruments, Baroque Violin Shop and Marshall Music Co. Having rental companies come to the school is just one way that the Jenison Music Program strives to support busy families and make it easier to consider trying something new.

Aaron Reiley, of Aaron’s Instruments, says that they started participating in this event five years ago.

“We originally came to JPS because they have a great orchestra program. I’ve known Dan (Scott) for a long time and it was a big factor in our decision to get on board. In fact, our family decided to move to Jenison for that reason! Once we saw the music program we wanted to work with JPS.”

Families and students present for the event were helped by volunteers directing traffic and answering questions. They were also excited for the chance to take home their very own instrument. Ella Uganski, a 5th grader picking up her own violin had this to say:

“I chose the violin because it sounds the best and it looks the most fun to do. I thought about the viola for a couple of minutes, but then I changed my mind. I’m really excited,” Ella said, beaming ear to ear.

Students like Ella will benefit from the early and consistent teaching that Jenison offers. She and her orchestra classmates will receive one afternoon of instruction in her own elementary building (45 minute class) and will also make a personal commitment to travel to the junior high two additional times per week before school. This kind of approach means that kids will play their first song on the first day of class — and be ready to perform a holiday concert by December!

Mrs. Johnson is looking forward to a new group of musicians, as well as the prospect of concerts in Jenison’s new Fine Arts Center.

How about you? Is your student in the orchestra? What do they love most about it? Leave a comment and tell us your story!

After two years and over 50,000 man hours of dreaming, designing and digging, the Jenison Public Schools Center for the Arts opened this week to hundreds of expectant community members. Supported with over 390 tons of steel and boasting 1,251 seats, we are so privileged to provide a beautiful, well-appointed home for the arts for generations to come, and above all, wish to thank this community for making this vision a reality.

The stage, whose floor is certified by the American Dance Association, spans 90 feet in diameter and touts a one-of-a-kind retractable dividing wall, enabling casts and crews to better customize their performance space. With over 3 miles of cables hidden beneath the stage and 60 locations for microphones, students will be heard–and seen– from any point in the hall. In fact, despite the soaring ceiling and custom wood chandelier, the furthest point from the stage in any direction is just 85 feet! Performances are also able to be broadcast live, with 8 different recording tracks available so that individual singers can be isolated out from the group.

Finally, for comfort within the hall, air is circulated in the most “green” way possible. Beneath the seats are vents covering two chambers that perfectly mix both cool and warm air. Once blended at a precise temperature, heat seeps up from the floor rather than blowing audience members in the face. This technique not only ensures proper temperatures throughout, but reduces the electrical use that fan systems require.

Other impressive details show that every suggestion was heard and each thought considered in the planning of this facility:

• The make-up room stretches wide and has sinks in each corner for easy preparation and clean up.
• Costume rooms have sewing machines and a front-loading washer/dryer for a complete costume production experience.
• Sets are designed in-house in a specially-designed shop with saws, plenty of electrical outlets, and towering ceilings.
• Double doors protect each entrance to the hall, providing a sound-proof experience.
• Walls are designed for acoustics, maximizing sound travel.

This holiday season, visitors will also enjoy the painted instrument sale whose proceeds benefit the Jenison Public Schools Art Department. Please consider taking home a masterpiece this December! Until then, take a tour with us and leave a comment with your first impressions!

What most amazed you about our new Center for the Arts?

JPS Administration Offices

What Diane Shrems expected to be an average Friday night football game in Jenison this fall turned out to be anything but average.  She was with her best friend and co-director, Karen Ambs, listening to students sing the fight song for a piece of candy when Karen handed her a stack of letters saying, “I want you to read what everyone thinks of you.”

They were her colleagues’ letters directed to the Michigan Music Educators Association [MMEA] nominating Diane for the prestigious award of Michigan Music Educator of the Year.  Diane was overwhelmed to tears with the outpouring of support and kind words.

Fast forward to this winter, when Diane received a call during an especially stressful rehearsal.  She told the unknown caller that she was dealing with a crisis and that he would have to call back later.  She hung up without another thought to who he was or why he called.

Much later that day, Diane was catching up on her work, only to discover a short email from the President of the MMEA apologizing for disrupting her rehearsal but wanting to let her know that she had been named the MMEA’s Educator of the Year. He added that he should know better than to contact a music teacher during holiday rehearsal season!

Diane loves working in Jenison and has done so for 23 years, calling it the “best job on the planet” and her students “amazing and respectful.”  She is humbled by the award saying that, “after reading the letters I realized that it is truly a team award.  My team makes me strong; without them I couldn’t be who I am—the team allows us to be the best.”

Co-director of the JPS Elementary Honors Choir and the Bobcat Choir [made up of 100 5^th & 6^th graders].  Diane’s list of accomplishments is long:

• She also co-directs the vocals for the JHS annual musical and is excited to be part of the Wizard of Oz this spring.
• Presented at the Michigan Music Conference, university general music workshops and the MMEA Fall workshop
• Awarded for excellence by the Jenison School Board
• Served on the Board of Directors of the MMEA
• Regularly a mentor to student teachers 

But those awards and recognitions come in second place when compared to “seeing the excitement in kids when they connect to each other with music.” Seeing that interaction is her favorite part of the job, and she is most looking forward to continuing to perform at the new Jenison Center for the Arts. The thought of giving her students the chance to perform on a stage that “is worthy of their talents” and seeing them connect with an audience is a thrill she has long awaited.  Diane said she is especially thankful to have an administration that supports the arts and with that, she says, “the sky’s the limit.”

The Music Educator of the Year Award will be presented on Saturday, January 18^th at the annual MMEA breakfast and meeting at the Michigan Music conference held here in Grand Rapids.  Congratulations, Mrs Schrems!  We’re proud to call you one of our own!

Each January, music educators from the entire state of Michigan gather in downtown Grand Rapids for the Annual Michigan Music Conference.  They attend sessions presented by leaders in the field and also listen to selected school musical groups.  The conference is recognized for setting a standard of excellence philosophically and musically throughout the state.

Various school groups are selected to perform based on audition recordings that are submitted by their directors the previous spring.  In the past thirty years many Jenison Choirs have been chosen to perform at all levels:  elementary, junior high and high school which is something we, as a district and community take great pride in.  However, this year, as a result of a blind audition the 7 – 9 Male Chorus was invited to perform during the MSVMA Choral Hour at the JW Marriott Hotel.  Only six choirs from the state were given this honor and ours was the only choir to include students at the junior high level.

While the quickly swelling crowd waited for the previous session to wrap up the Jenison Male Chorus worked on their focus with mental warm ups.  The other selected choirs from Traverse City and DeWitt also waited but it was impossible to ignore the 94 young men dressed in their tux jackets and ties.

When they took the stage, they were greeted by applause and performed four songs:  two in Latin with complex harmonies and two that were upbeat and included some different stylings.  The final song, “Coney Island Baby” even included choreography and was a genuine crowd pleaser, earning the group a standing ovation.

Director Steven Waters, a veteran teacher of 29 years who has been with Jenison for 18 years, had this to say in appreciation of the young men he works with:

“I think the thing that is most unique about our group compared to others is that it is an all male JH age (grades 7-9) group. The second thing that sets them apart is that they aren’t an auditioned group. The other choirs that were selected are all “select” , elite choirs from their respective schools. We refer to our choirs at the JH as “y’all come sing” groups. Our Male Chorus is also unique in that it’s a JH aged choir that routinely sings 4-part acappella literature which is very challenging.” 

If you’d like to catch an upcoming performance of another Jenison Choir please join our JH girl choirs performing in the Jenison Center for the Arts with the Lakewood Area Choral Society (LACS) on Tuesday April 1.

“This is a unique opportunity for our students to perform jointly with an adult group. We’re hoping this encourages them to view singing as a lifelong activity that is healthy and rewarding. The LACS is a phenomenal auditioned community ensemble of 110 voices  and is directed by former Jenison Choir Director Bob Oster.”  - Steven Waters

Congratulations Male Chorus!  We’re proud of you!

Dan Scott, Director of Orchestras at Jenison High School has been given the prestigious honor of being named the Director of the Year by the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association.  

Last Spring we told you about the nomination process for Mr. Scott which was the first step on this exciting journey.  He was nominated [alongside Mr. Zamborsky] by his peers in District 10 which is comprised of Allegan, Ottawa and Kent counties and this past June the nominations were narrowed down to only 3 teachers by the Executive Board of the MSBOA.  Then, in December, those 3 band and 3 orchestra teachers are voted on by the statewide membership of the MSBOA.  The winners are announced in January at DeVos Hall during the performance of the All-State Band and Orchestra performances.

Knowing that no teacher works alone, Mr. Scott is especially grateful to his fellow staff at Jenison:  ”The music department is a rare group of professionals who are all tops in their profession.  They are all wonderful teachers who consistently amaze me how they show their love for students, music and education.  In 2002, Carol Johnson joined the orchestra program, taking over the JH program and her partnership is one of the biggest reasons Jenison has the orchestra program it has today.”

We join the MSBOA in saluting you, Mr Scott!  We’re so proud to have you on our team!

The fall performance season was enriched by another year of the Jenison High School Chamber Orchestra partnership with the Grand Valley State University Symphony Orchestra.

Director Dan Scott says, “Jenison students rehearsed in class [while also preparing our fall concert and our performance for the Betty Ford Breast Cancer Awareness Event], but they also had one 90 minute rehearsal with the GVSU Symphony on the day of the concert.”

Henry Duitman, GVSU Director of Orchestras explains how the side by side aspect works:  “For the Mussorgsky piece, the GVSU Strings will sit “side by side” with the Jenison High School Chamber Orchestra strings.  This gives younger students a chance to learn from older students and gives the entire string section the full sound that this mighty work requires.  It is a lot of fun for the students as well.  Our students love to perform with the high school students and were especially looking forward to performing in the wonderful new Jenison Center for the Arts.”

Professor Duitman knows that music education is about more than performances and reading music. “This is just one more way of exposing students, parents, and the community to the exciting world of classical music, an important part of any liberal arts education.”

Thank you to both Mr Scott + Professor Duitman for bringing together these two very talented groups of musicians!  Students, we’re so proud of your talent and hard work!  Keep it up!

Last week the Jenison Thespians amazed audiences with their talent and passion in their performance of Shrek the Musical!

The story in the musical version is very similar to the movie from 2001 we all know and love with a few minor changes and song additions. Shrek is an ogre who finds solace in a lonely swamp until it is invaded by ousted fairy tale characters from Lord Farquaad’s kingdom when he deems them “freaks.” But Shrek doesn’t want them either. Preferring his solitude to a overly crowded neighborhood, Shrek visits Farquaad to convince him to take the characters back. Farquaad decides to let Shrek rescue Princess Fiona who has long been trapped by a ferocious dragon in return for his swamp. Along the way, Shrek is saddled with Donkey, a chatty but charming compatriot in his adventure. Fiona is less than impressed with her rescuer and even less so with Farquaad and through a continued series of songs, fun and love, Shrek and Fiona end up together and the fairy tale characters get their new home after all. You could say “they live happily ever after…”

Director Todd Avery hopes to spread the message about individuality being accepted and celebrated which is a main theme of the production. “As the song, “Let Your Freak Flag Fly!” indicates, EVERYONE has something “freakish” about them and those traits should be celebrated and not suppressed.  People [or in this case, fairy tale creatures] are different.  However, those differences are a GOOD thing and shouldn’t be judged by others.”

There are many  behind the scenes teams including set design and construction, sound and tech, pit orchestra, costume design, hair and makeup and stage management.  Kelsey Shannon is a senior who is the crew leader for the hair and make up team and enjoys being part of productions and the ability to be yourself. “Nobody’s judged, everyone’s accepting because you share the same passion.”

Freshman, Ashley Hillson, playing the role of Princess Fiona loves being part of Jenison Theatre and makes her return to the stage after playing Arial in the Little Mermaid in last year’s Junior High musical. “The friendships you make here are so cool. Rehearsal doesn’t even feel like rehearsal anymore, it’s just everyone hanging out.”

Playing Shrek is senior Jacob Helm who says, “I feel like letting your freak flag fly is really important because it’s letting you show who you truly are, especially in theatre, which is why I think it’s so cool that we’re doing this show.  This is a place where we’re allowed to be who we really are without being judged.”

Ashley adds, “Anytime you are yourself people end up accepting you more and you end up finding  the people who are like you and when you’re yourself you’re a lot happier. No matter what you’re part of, just be willing to stay true to yourself and not feel like you need to be fake or hide.”

Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of Shrek! We are proud of your talents and we love letting our freak flag fly!

Earlier this month students involved in various choirs across the district performed at the JCA much to the delight of their families, friends and teachers.

Mrs Schrems says, “The 7th and 8th Grade Girls Choirs were amazing with their performance as was the 7-8-9 Male Chorus directed by both Mr. Waters and Mr. Carmichael.”  The night was closed out by a magical, true “surround sound” performance by both the Elementary Honors Choir and the Jr High Choirs with the song, “Night of Silence/Silent Night”. The Jr High Girls sang from the balconies, the Male Chorus sang from the stage and the Elementary Choir sang from the aisles on the orchestra level.

The next night “our incredible lower el students had a lovely performance called M-E-R-R-Y C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S! They sang beautifully and their behavior on stage was excellent.  We had approximately 50 narrators speak into the microphone as well.   Great Job!”

And if that wasn’t enough, they headed to the Holiday Festival in the lobby of the airport! “The choir kids were complimented many times for their great singing but also for their polite manners.  We ended with some refreshments provided by the wonderful staff at the airport.”

Congratulations to all of our choir, band and orchestra students and directors! Your dedication and hard work is appreciated by the entire Jenison community and we love being able to see the ways you grow in your talents!

As a partnership to #JPSReads, the Junior High theatre department presents, James and the Giant Peach starting today and running through Sunday afternoon. We hope that families all over the district participated in the Read Aloud, JPSReads, earlier this school year and read the classic Roald Dahl story but if it’s new to you, don’t worry, it’s a heartwarming tale of an underdog you’ll love.

James is orphaned early in life and goes to live with his aunt who treats him as a servant, rather than a young boy. He soon meets a mysterious old man who offers him a magic bag of crocodile tongues that will make his life better. When James accidentally spills the tongues all over the ground, he is surprised to see an enormous peach grow on the sidewalk! The giant peach becomes a magical place of fantasy and friendship for James and, of course, you’ll need to read the book or buy a ticket this weekend to hear the rest!

When Director, Holly Florian, was anticipating this years musical, she considered the amazing batch of talent her students bring to the table. While the audience is aware that the actors on stage are junior high students, what they may not realize is that by the end of the weekend, the entire show is student-run. They are in charge of the lights, sound, stage management, direction, and set changes. They are assisted by a couple of high school students in their tasks but they act mainly in the role of mentor to these ambitious junior highers!

The cast auditioned back in mid-October and at the end of that month they began their rehearsals. Near showtime, they are rehearsing from 5-9pm every weeknight! Prior to the holiday break they have memorized all of their lines but Ms Florian encourages them from this point on to really let the characters become their own; to have fun with the lines and the story. She sees their potential and wants them to have the opportunitiy to shine as a result of their hard work and dedication.

Just like our high school students say year after year, Ms Florian believes that her students love being in the theatre program because it provides a sense of belonging and community. Students are able to meet new people and make friends with other students they may have never met otherwise. Because of this, she is especially pleased with the journey that James makes in this story. As the director, she is able to see the journey of students, their progress and self-confidence throughout the rehearsal season. By the end “it’s amazing to see how far they’ve come and that’s what this story is all about: self-confidence.”

If you’d like to see these talented students live, in action, you can purchase your tickets here. It’s a great opportunity to bring the book to life and remind your kids of the importance of and meaning found in reading and stories!

Break a leg, Junior High students! We know you will be incredible, not only this weekend, but always!

The Bobcat Choir from Bauerwood cannot simply be contained by the borders of Jenison! Last week they traveled to VanAndel Arena to serenade the Grand Rapids Griffins, their opponents, the Iowa Wild and the hometown crowd with the National Anthem. They were supported by 300 Bauerwood family members who came to cheer on the choir and the Griffs!

Bauerwood music director, Diane Schrems, says that fifteen years ago the Bobcat Choir started signing the National Anthem at the Whitecaps games and then reached out to the Griffins as well. “Most recently Grand Valley contacted me to see if I would bring the Bobcat Choir to a Grand Valley Women’s basketball game.  It’s wonderful to get out into the community and perform for everyone.”

Rehearsals for the big performance have been taking place weekly after school on Thursday’s and the choir has watched post-game tape and agree they did a great job. Of course, they also got to stay for the game and had a wonderful time cheering with their family and friends.

Even though the Griffs couldn’t pull of a win that night (they lost 1-2), the Bobcat Choir certainly won for their talent, courage and showmanship! Jenison is proud of you! Go Wildcats!

Tonight the curtain opens on another spectacular Jenison High School Musical: Peter Pan! Of course, the story of the boy who refuses to grow up, written by J.M. Barrie, is well-known and a ubiquitous part of pop culture. It first hit the Broadway stage in 1954 when it earned its first Tony Awards. JPS Thespian Director, Todd Avery, was thrilled to bring Peter Pan and the Star Catcher this fall as a prequel to this weekend’s big show and he hopes audiences who take in both productions see the subtle connections the shows have to offer.

Of course, the show will feature some fantastic special effects that everyone has come to expect from Peter Pan – flying! According to Mr Avery, “The biggest part of the show is the flying. I have a fantastic “flight crew” of students and alum who have taken on the responsibility to fly their classmates across the stage.  The actors who fly, have never done anything like this before and are executing very well while hovering 10 to 20 feet above the stage.  We have a series of safety checks, good leadership, and everyone is having fun. There’s plenty of special effects in the show besides the flying.  Tinkerbell darts across the stage, interacting with the Darling nursery.  We even have a special live appearance of everyone’s favorite fairy that I’ve added to the show.  Finally, the talent level of this great group of kids is amazing.  Audience members will forget they are watching high school students.”

This show features sets, props, and costumes that are entirely handmade by student teams, each assisted by an adult leader. The professional quality is a testament to many hard and long hours of work in the scene shop and costume shop.

Students grow in their confidence, abilities, and leadership qualities throughout the show preparation and production. Students with special needs are involved in the show and fellow students rally around them for support, unprompted by Mr. Avery or other adults. “Probably the most amazing growth I’ve encountered is in our Peter Pan, junior Ashley Postema. Her freshman year, Ashley worked with her mother, board member, Jen Postema on our scenery for Oklahoma.  I saw her in the shop every day and her work was beautiful.  Ashley is an accomplished artist with several entries appearing in galleries around West Michigan. She barely spoke to me and was a very shy young lady.  Now, here she is laughing and joking with me and has the title role in the show!  I’ve seen this happen again and again with various students over the years.”

Of course, each time a production is featured we hear from students that the theatre community is welcoming, open, and feels like a family. Mr. Avery works hard to set the tone for students but they take the reigns and welcome each other. “Since the beginning, I have stressed the collaborative elements of theatre.  Everyone is welcome here, no exceptions.  I’m proud to say that over the years we’ve had representatives from every social group at Jenison High School either onstage or backstage. Mutual respect is also important.  No matter how stressful things become, we all must do our best to listen and respect each other.  We continually build each other up.  It is amazing how a simple “thank you” or “good job” can change someone’s day. My biggest joy is hearing about students within our program bringing in other kids to the program because it is a safe place where they can be themselves, have support and have fun.”

Amazingly, the benefits and strengths of students participating in theatre  don’t stop when the curtain goes up. A 2012 study by Americans for the Arts shows that students with four years of high school theatre arts, visual art, and music classes have higher SAT scores than students with one half year or less. “There are dozens of studies like this one that prove that students involved in the arts gain problem-solving skills, self-confidence, a sense of belonging, speaking and organizational skills, as well as many other benefits. There are several studies showing that employers like to have theatre majors working for them because they are creative problem solvers who work well in groups and are confident in interpersonal interactions.”

This weekend, take some time to enjoy the talents, hard work, and community of the Jenison Thespians! They will inspire you and bring some magic while they’re at it. And of course, remember that “Growing old is mandatory.  Growing up is optional.  Too many people lose touch with their inner child and forget how to have fun once they “grow up.”   They don’t take the time to look at the world through the eyes of a young person.  Of course, there are benefits to growing up, but when life is taken too seriously, something is being missed or sacrificed.  Play with your children.  Fight for your right to never grow up.”

Break a leg, JPS Theatre! We are always amazed by everything you do! [Psst! If you haven’t gotten you tickets yet, you can do so here!]

When Rosewood music teacher, Karen Ambs, told fellow teachers she was thinking of starting an elementary Ukulele Club, she was met with a fair amount of skepticism.  But she knew something they didn’t: the ukulele is hot right now and she was right. She was at capacity with 33 students that first week in March. And now, eight weeks later, while they have lost a handful of students to Little League, the Ukulele Club is going strong with 26 students!

Last fall Karen attended a music education conference at Hope College and learned about the benefits of using the ukulele to teach instrumentation to young students. She learned that it is an easy instrument to teach and learn and students see a relative amount of success early on. But rather than introduce the instrument for classes right away, Mrs Ambs wanted to familiarize herself more thoroughly with the instrument and test it out in a club setting first. She saw that ukulele’s were catching on with students so she started asking students what they thought of meeting as a club. She only received positive replies, so they kicked things off in March!

Students were able to learn quickly. “If you know four chords, you can play 100 songs” and Mrs Ambs adds that one of the great things about the club is that everyone is able to play at their own level when practicing songs together. Sixth grade ukulele club member, Molly Jones says that the club is “so much fun” and because “we’re all learning together, if you make a mistake, it’s no big deal.” Fifth grade ukulelist, Conner Van Dam, joined because he wanted to add another instrument to his repertoire which currently includes the viola and next year, the baritone. He, along with Gavin Louckes [also 5th grade] say that, even though they didn’t know how to play the ukulele, they weren’t worried about trying something new. “If you never try it, you never know!” they said.

The club is open to 3rd – 6th graders at Rosewood and Mrs Ambs says that when students were learning chords in the beginning, it worked out well to have the younger students sit near the older students to watch and learn. This mentorship happened organically and Mrs Ambs was very pleased to have this be a byproduct of the club experience.

While some students were able to purchase ukulele’s in order to be part of the club, that isn’t an option for everyone. In order to give everyone an opportunity to learn the instrument, Ms Ambs is seeking grant funds to help out. A few years ago we told you about the great work of the Jenison Public Education Foundation and Mrs Ambs is hoping for a grant from them in the form of a complete classroom set. The potential for this grant, along with other possible resources will ensure that Rosewood student has the opportunity to learn ukulele in music class!

If these curious and talented students have inspired you to learn to entertain family and friends with this Hawaiian classic, Mrs Ambs has some words of encouragement for you! “It’s a very, simple, easy way to pick up an instrument and be successful with it. Yet, if you want to make it more challenging, you can go beyond four chords and learn picking patterns and melodies”. Still feeling unsure? Molly reminds everyone to “do something you enjoy!” and that just might mean picking up a ukulele!

Thank you, Mrs Ambs, for finding fun, creative ways to engage our students in learning about the wonderful world of music! Congratulations to these awesome Rosewood students for trying something new! We hope to see you at the Talent Show!