A local high school band was named top in the country. The big baNG drummers from North Grenville District High School won gold at MusicFest Canada. The national competition was held Friday at the NAC in Ottawa.
Band member Jasmine Friedrich-Wap says they were given half an hour to perform for the judges. She says bands from across the country are invited to participate. Friedrich-Wap noted it was an important experience and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The big baNG won gold at the Capital Region Music Festival on March 1 to secure a spot at nationals. The band performs traditional African pieces. A total of 47 students, ranging from grades eight to 12, are in big baNG. The program is run by teachers Heather Lance and Robb Brooks.
Friedrich-Wap says everyone was really happy about the gold standing. She says the band works hard and it’s nice to have something to show for it.
The big baNG brought home a plaque from nationals. MusicFest Canada is the biggest educational music festival in North America.