Those who follow along with the Turner High School band and choral programs have likely noticed a theme in recent years: “superior” competition results.

In addition to receiving top ratings, the programs have seen growth in their enrollment numbers as students seek to become involved in what has become a point of pride for our Turner Golden Bear community.

This school year, the full band received the highest rating possible at both the Baker University Marching Festival and the KSHSAA State Large Group Festival. The jazz band also earned top ratings at the Baker University Jazz Festival and the Mid-America Nazarene Jazz Festival.

If that wasn’t enough of an accomplishment, the jazz ensemble was named "Most Outstanding High School Jazz Ensemble" for their Mid-America Nazarene performance. In addition to the large group successes, there have been numerous individual honors given to students at various clinics as well as at regional and state competitions.

In reflecting on what has contributed to these incredible accolades in recent years, Wes Lewis, Director of Bands, attributed it to student leadership. “Our students are taking ownership over the success of this program and helping develop an atmosphere of constant growth.”

Bailey Eisenbraun, Assistant Band Director, agrees, “I see students scheduling their own rehearsals outside of school, recording themselves, listening to professionals, and finding every performance opportunity possible. The growth over the past couple of years that we have seen would not have been possible without the student leaders that have stepped up.”

The importance of fine arts programs cannot be understated. They provide a creative outlet for students, as well as foster a sense of community. This sense of community has become stronger as program numbers have grown. When Shelby Hanna, Choral Director, began her teaching career at Turner High School, there were 71 students in the choral program, and now seven years later, there are 119 students.

Hanna shared that she has witnessed her students put their heart into creating an approachable environment, which has attracted students who are seeking a safe, welcoming space at school.

Senior Jes Boyle pointed out the importance of the group coming together as one. “What truly makes our choir program successful is the sense of belonging and togetherness we've cultivated. Our choir members have shown remarkable dedication and resilience and their unwavering commitment to music and each other has been the driving force behind all our accomplishments.”

As for all those accomplishments… the list is long.

This year, Turner Singers and Golden Tones received top ratings and advanced to the state competition, where Golden Tones received their seventh consecutive state award.

For the large groups, Tenor/Bass Ensemble got their second state award, and Bel Canto received their third straight year of top ratings from all judges. Chorale had great success and received a top rating from one judge but came away with an overall excellent rating.

While the ratings are impressive, what is equally important is how well the students represent Turner at these events.

Hanna shared that her students are not only insanely talented, they are also very professional. “I would truly put our students up against anyone. I always feel they are one of the most well-behaved groups when we take them on outings, and they carry themselves so well.”

Students in these programs cited numerous skills they have developed during their high school years, including increased confidence, dedication, openness to feedback, and the ability to collaborate with others.

“I stepped up and became a section leader, I performed a solo, and made many memories with the band. Coming out of high school, band has left me with more confidence in myself and the willingness to try new things,” said senior Jazmin Baeza-Russell.

These skills that students have learned during their time in the programs will serve them well as they continue on in their schooling and professions. For some, those post-graduate plans include scholarships that earned them a place in collegiate choir and band programs.

“It’s obvious that they love what they do and that they want to work hard to be successful,“ said Eisenbraun.

This year’s graduating seniors include some who plan to pursue music as a career.

Regardless of whether they follow a music path after high school, there is no doubt that involvement in these programs while in high school has a positive social and academic impact on students. And that paired with the fact that these programs have been making a name for Turner High School at the regional and state levels? We couldn’t be more proud.