The Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Music Boosters were pleased to be able to hold their annual music award banquet again this year. The event took place at the Red Shed Event Center last Tuesday evening.
Both high school music instructors gave various acknowledgements and awards. Band direct Kent Wesselink recognized those students who participated in solo festival earlier this year. Freshmen through senior letter winners were also acknowledged.
In special honors, Wesselink presented an award to Lucas Parcell for his Taps played at the Veterans Day service last November. The Director's Award was awarded to two students, Nathan Stuck and Brenna Cross, honoring them as outstanding senior members of the CGD band. The Arion Award was established in 1948 to give national recognition to senior class members chosen by their schools for outstanding achievement in band, orchestra, or chorus. Students who receive the Arion Award have attained both high academic and community standing. Kara Legleiter was presented the Arion Award. And introduced in 1955 to honor the top student in the high school band, the John Phillip Sousa Band Award recognizes superior musicianship and outstanding dedication. Wesselink presented this award to Isaiah Nebbe.
High school vocal instructor David Ackerman was up next. He also named the students who had received letters for high school chorus and acknowledged those who participated in Solo/Small Ensemble State Contest. He again congratulated the mixed chorus for achieving a Division I Superior Rating at Large Group State Contest. For special awards, senior Natalie Kirstein received the ICDA (Iowa Choral Directors Association) Vocal Award.
Ackerman also reflected on his time at CGD. He is retiring this year after 27 years with the district and 34 years teaching. He thanked the school and administrators and school boards along the way that helped grow the music program. He also acknowledged several great staff members he has worked with over the years. He said, “It’s really about the kids you work with and the relationships you build.”
All the music teachers, including Denis Greenfield and Tom Klaver, were given special framed art. Ackerman was also presented with a plaque to honor his retirement and a display handmade by his students. CGD alum Cheyenne Harle also shared some special memories of Ackerman.
