PHS varsity choirs earn two Sweepstakes Awards at UIL Competition
The Plainview High School A Cappella Choir and Varsity Treble Choir brought home sweepstakes awards at for UIL Concert / Sightreading Competition held at Estacado High School in Lubbock on April 3. Sweepstakes, by UIL standards, indicates a Division 1 or superior recognition for both a concert performance and sightreading ability.
The Non-Varsity Treble Choir landed a Division 1, superior, plaque for outstanding sightreading skills and Division 2, excellent, for their concert performance.
The A Cappella Choir boasts 72 members with the Varsity Treble Choir comprised of 40 women from A Cappella. The non-varsity treble choir has 60 members this year which, according to Dr. Buford, is an indicator of the growth of the program.
PHS choral director, Dr. Debra Bufford, said, “This competition encompasses complete teamwork, requiring each and every member of the three different choirs to blend, balance, and sing as one voice in their notated ensemble. This is all performed under the conducting of a director.”
Dr. Buford praised Sally Bass, the director of the non-varsity treble choir, and expressed how far much these girls had grown musically under her leadership. Bufford said the judges comments for the non-varsity treble choir included, “I love your approach and tonal production,” and “You demonstrated a high level of reading skill.”
Judge comments for the Varsity level mixed choir included, “Nice strength and articulation in the group” and for the varsity women, “Dynamic and blend--gorgeous!”
Dr. Buford also expressed her appreciation for Dr. Steve Weber of Wayland Baptist University and Dr. Phillip Camp of Lubbock Chrisitan University for their assistance with listening and working with our varsity ensembles during extra rehearsals.
Dr. Buford said, “We are so grateful for the professors that come from local universities and work with our students at such a high level of musicianship. This adds so much to students as they prepare for UIL and increase the opportunities for advancing to the collegiate level with their music.”
Dr. Buford adds that if you would like to see first-hand the talent of these choral students, mark your calendar for the 42nd Annual Clay R. Warren Red, White, and Blue Revue. The performance will take place on May 11-12 in the Plainview High School Auditorium. Reserved seating will be available this year. For more information please call 806-296-3341.
