The District Music Contest (DMC) is an annual competition that gives musical students the chance to show off their skills and get critiques from professionals. This year, DMC took place on April 22 and 23 up at Central Community College here in Columbus. DMC has both instrumental and vocal competitions for students to take part in. 

I had the pleasure of speaking with the Columbus High School band director Mr. Peabody about DMC and what his students did in order to prepare. His responses are as follows:

• How are different events assigned to the students?

• There are a few different types of events:  

• Large Group-Which would be Symphonic Band and Jazz Band which are allotted 20 minutes to perform 2 or 3 songs and judged by three judges.  If 2 out of 3 judges agree that the group earned a Superior (I) rating then you are awarded that rating, if all 3 judges agree that the group earned a superior rating then the group gets that rating and a plaque.

• Small Group-Which would be any duets or trios as well as the three percussion ensembles. They are allotted 6 minutes to play one song and have 1 judge who assigns the rating.

• Solos-These also are allotted 6 minutes to play one song and have 1 judge.

• How long have your students been preparing these pieces for DMC?

• Students usually begin preparations in January

• Do they always play the same instruments that they play in your classes?

• Yes, this is an NSAA event where you want to do your very best on the instrument that you know the best.

• Is DMC a requirement for your students or is it just recommended?

• District Music Contest is not a requirement for band members.  It is highly valuable to students for demonstrating on a resume or work application that a student is capable of completing independent tasks within a timeframe at a high level of achievement.  It is also a requirement for any student wishing to apply to be on the leadership team for the Discoverer Marching Band.

CHS Anchor News Recognizes all of the hard work and dedication both Mr. Peabody and his students have put into their performances this year! To hear more on the vocal part of DMC make sure to check out a new article by Carys Grahm.

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