by Caroline Bredekamp for the Preston Times
Senior Austin Thomson was awarded the John Philip Sousa Band Award and the National School Choral Award at the Easton Valley Spring Concert. The John Philip Sousa Band Award is the most prestigious award for high school band students, given to students who demonstrate superior musicianship, leadership, and dependability. Similarly, the National School Choral Award is the highest honor for high school choral performers that recognizes musical achievement and dedication. Austin has been nominated for and participated in two honor choirs and two honor bands in this school year alone, serves on the band leadership team, and is a founding member of the Easton Valley Rock Band.
“In the year that I’ve known him, he has shown an unwavering dedication to the music program, and a personal commitment and drive to learn as much as he can and hone his craft. He has been a great leader and teacher to others and has grown an immense amount in his musical skill- there is not a second of free time that he has where he is not in the music room writing his own music or practicing an instrument. I cannot think of anyone more fitting to be Easton Valley’s first recipient of these awards” -Jen Diemer (EVHS choir and band director)
Amanda Carlson and, Jen Diemer presented Austin Thomson with top musical honors.
Austin Thompson received a surprise ending at his last vocal and band concert by receiving both the John Philip Sousa Band Award and the National School Choral Award.
