The Foundation for Music Education's “Mark of Excellence” project seeks to recognize and award outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school bands, choirs and orchestras. This year three Denton ISD ensembles received the highest marks available.

“I am very proud of all three of our ensembles. We all know that this recognition is the result of daily hard work and dedication from an amazing team of band directors, private lesson teachers, and students,” said Dr. Jackie deMontmollin, Director of Fine Arts.  “We are so proud of the cultures of excellence they have developed in their programs and grateful that the Foundation for Music Education recognizes their incredible work.” 

 The project gathers entries from throughout the United States and provides valuable feedback for all entrants.  This year, one hundred forty-five of the finest high school and middle school musical ensembles nationally entered the project.  Ensembles submit a recording from a live concert to be judged and evaluated by world-renown musical conductors.  A unique competitive environment is created which allows ensembles to compare their performance quality to other outstanding groups from across the country. 

The top 25 percent of entrants are recognized as National Winners, with the second 25 percent named as Commended Winners. All entrants receive a compilation recording of the winning performances. Winners are recognized in regional and/or national publications and at national and regional conventions. 

Congratulations to the students and directors of these three outstanding Denton ISD bands for being honored with a Mark of Excellence award. View the complete list of award winners on the Foundation for Music Education website.

• Braswell HS Wind Symphony, Aaron Snipes, Director
  • Class 6A Wind Band Commended Winner

• Guyer HS Rhapsody Orchestra, Michelle Hanlon, Director
  • HS String Orchestra Commended Winner

• Denton HS Lab Band 1, Jesse Woolery, Director
  • HS Jazz Ensemble Commended Winner