On Jan. 30, 160 members of the JM band program attended the state-level Minnesota State High School League Solo and Ensemble Contest hosted by Lakeville South High School.

Most solos and ensembles received either Superior or Excellent ratings from the judges. The JM Percussion Quartet, with members Josh Frei, Conner Garrett, James Schuster and Jayden Schuster were named “Best In Site” by their site judge. 

Congratulations to all of the fine JM musicians for their success at this year’s contest!

IBM has awarded a $1,000 Community Grant to the John Marshall Band Boosters.

The money will be used to purchase a new piccolo for the band and speakers for the SmartMusic program, which students started using this year.

The award was announced during the bands' Holiday Concert on Dec. 14. Marla Berg, an IBM employee and president of the boosters, presented the check to boosters treasurer Mike Adkins.

IBM awards the grants based on applications made by a company employee or retiree. The applicant must have actively participated in a not-for-profit community organization for at least five months, volunteering an average of at least 8 hours each month. As a 501c3 organization, the John Marshall Band Boosters qualified.

Many thanks to IBM for supporting the JM band program!