The Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble made history Dec. 18 when they performed at the prestigious 78th Annual Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago. The event represented a major achievement in the music world and a proud moment for Minnesota and School District 719.
To commemorate the milestone, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz officially proclaimed that date “Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble Day” in Minnesota, honoring the ensemble’s accomplishments and contributions to the arts.
In the 87-year history of the Midwest Clinic, only seven Minnesota high schools have been honored with an invitation to perform, with the last state high school appearance taking place in 1977. The Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble is the first-ever ensemble from Minnesota to receive the honor. The last Minnesota school to perform at the Midwest Clinic was a middle school in 2001.
Selection for the event is highly competitive and the rigorous process ensures that only the finest ensembles are invited to perform.
Justin Schramm is the director of the PLHS band. Percussion ensemble members include: Tyler Andring, Jayden Bisbee, Sam Britton, Jacob Brown, Massimo Civitillo, Andrew Coleman, Jimmy Conley, Jonathan Duch, Tegan Featherstone, Nissa Frantz, Henry Gabrio, Nolan Goss, Owen Hammett, Klarissa Harris, Jack Herendeen, Mason Horter, Jenna Lewison, Josie McWilliams, Jack Nicolet, Piper Otzen, Cole Reinsbach, Joe Roemer, Cam Salmela, Donovan Schafroth, Ella Schmit, Berit Schulz, Max Streetar, Kayla Telshaw, Henry Tucker, Noah Wagner and Harry Zheng.