The Herndon Middle School Symphonic Band, under the direction of Ms. Sharon Bonneau, performed at the Virginia Music Educators Association State Conference on November 15th. After submitting a performance CD and application form last spring, the group was chosen to play at the Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia, for hundreds of music educators from all over the state. Included on their program were two guest conductors: Mr. Richard L. Bergman, retired band director from Herndon High School, and Professor Anthony Maiello from the George Mason University School of Music. In addition, Ms. Bonneau performed a clarinet solo with the group.
Ms. Bonneau, a graduate of The Eastman School of Music, has been the director of bands at Herndon Middle for twelve years. Prior to becoming a teacher in Fairfax County, she was a clarinetist in the United States Air Force Concert Band for nine years, and has been an Adjunct Professor of Clarinet at George Mason University since 1995.
A performance of this magnitude is the highest state honor that a middle school band may achieve. In order to have a fabulous concert, the band students began preparing for this honor in August and rehearsed after school three times a week. Herndon Middle School is proud of their hard-working and dedicated Symphonic Band members!
