From Mr. Jacobs (The following was sent in the weekly news to LHS faculty on Feb 8, 2015)
Last week our Arts departments were on full display as music educators, students, and administrators from all over the state convened in Louisville, KY for the annual KMEA conference. It may be a bit of an understatement to say Lafayette stole the show… we were the show! First up—our arts department joined forces to show an innovative and collaborative approach to artistic performance combining elements of live music, beautiful dance choreography, original poetry, and live painting inspired by the feelings, rhythm, and tempo of the music the artists were hearing. Certainly this approach is something educators all over the state will be taking back to their schools and emulating. Thank you Cathy Rowland, Jason Sturgill, Karyn Combs, and Liz Prather for being pioneers in the field, and allowing our students to shine in the spotlight!
Next, conducted masterfully by Mr. Phil Kent, our orchestra put on a show! Playing the likes of Gershwin and Haydn, they moved the audience who were amazed by the professional and flawless execution of the performance of our students (watch the entire performance at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yv_zqGEMZm8 ).
Finally our Choir took center stage. In a beautiful gothic style Cathedral on 4th Street, our students and Ryan Marsh were inspiring. I am constantly amazed by the talent and skill of our musicians! The acoustics and picturesque setting of this cathedral provided our students the stage they deserved to showcase to the state what Lafayette can do. The crowd responded with a 2 minute roaring standing ovation, a scene that left me in goosebumps, observing Mr. Marsh and our students enjoying the crowd’s appreciation of their performance.
The weekend ended on Saturday with our very own Phil Kent being named Outstanding Orchestra Teacher of the Year by the American String Teachers Association KY Chapter. Congrats to Mr. Kent on his very deserving acceptance of this distinguished award. Truly we have much to celebrate!