Galion Intermediate School has announced that 4th-grade student Lillyana Breckenridge has been selected to join the esteemed Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) All-State Children’s Chorus, a distinguished ensemble for talented young vocalists in grades 4 and 5. Her selection is a testament to her exceptional abilities and dedication to music.
A Prestigious Opportunity for Young Singers
The OMEA All-State Children’s Chorus is a highly competitive program designed to showcase the best young voices in Ohio. Lillyana’s audition in May 2024 demonstrated her impressive talent and earned her a spot in this elite group, consisting of 130 fourth- and fifth-grade students statewide. As one of only two students chosen from Crawford County, Lillyana’s accomplishment reflects her dedication and hard work.
The All-State Children’s Chorus will perform on Thursday, February 6 at 5:00 PM at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland during the OMEA Professional Development Conference. The performance is free and open to the public, though early arrival is recommended as high attendance is expected.
The concert will be conducted by Melissa Trevino Keylock, a celebrated music educator renowned for her ability to inspire young musicians.
A Rich and Diverse Musical Repertoire
The All-State Children’s Chorus will present an exciting and varied program designed to highlight the students’ vocal range and versatility. The repertoire includes:
- “Can You Hear Me” by Bob Chilcott
- “Cedar Swamp” arranged by Jay Broeker
- “Mary Had a Little Blues” by Charles A. Collins
- “Sesere eeye”, a traditional Torres Strait Islands song
- “Song of the Fortune Tellers” by Giuseppe Verdi
This selection celebrates global musical traditions and challenges the students to explore diverse genres, from classical to folk and blues.
A Moment of Pride for Galion Intermediate School
Galion Intermediate School’s music teacher, Alisha Griffin, expressed immense pride in Lillyana’s accomplishment:
“We are incredibly proud of her hard work, dedication, and remarkable talent. Her selection to the All-State Children’s Chorus is a special accomplishment, and we know she will represent our school and community with pride.”
Mrs. Griffin’s dedication to fostering musical excellence has been a hallmark of Galion Intermediate School’s arts program. Over her six years with the school, she has inspired students through initiatives such as:
- 2nd-grade music programs that delight families and staff alike.
- Performances at local nursing homes, bringing joy to the community.
- Leadership of the 4th and 5th-grade choirs, which provide opportunities for students to grow musically and personally.
- Advising the Galion Intermediate School Student Council, which encourages leadership and service among students.
About the OMEA Conference
The OMEA Professional Development Conference is a premier event celebrating the power of music education in Ohio. Taking place over three days in Cleveland, the conference features over 30 performances, professional development sessions, and networking opportunities for educators. The All-State Children’s Chorus is one of the conference’s highlights, drawing significant public interest.
For more details about the conference, visit the OMEA website.
Source: Galion Schools