Numerous Katy ISD music ensembles will be starting their new school year with a distinguished state recognition. In July, the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) announced that two Katy ISD schools will be performing at the TMEA annual convention in February 2023, in San Antonio, Texas. Beckendorff Junior High (BDJH) Orchestra took the top spot in the Junior High/Middle School String Orchestra Division, and was chosen as an honor ensemble through a multi-level competitive evaluation and the Alexander Elementary Choir was selected as an invited group to represent the Elementary Division. Six additional Katy ISD music groups were ranked in the top 10 in Texas in their respective divisions.
Each year TMEA holds a statewide contest to recognize the highest performing ensembles across the state of Texas. To be considered, each group must submit a recording of their ensemble to a panel of judges for evaluation.
“This year Katy ISD had eight groups that advanced to finals, which was the most of any district in this state-level competition,” said Damon Archer, Executive Director of the Fine Arts Department in Katy ISD. “Students were anxiously awaiting these results during the summer. To receive this prestigious recognition just weeks from the first day of school will surely contribute to a motivating school year,” added Archer.
The results for each Katy ISD group, by division, are:
Elementary Division
Alexander Elementary Choir – Invited Group
Junior High/Middle School String Orchestra Division
Beckendorff Junior High – 1st Place (Honor Ensemble)
Tays Junior High – 4th Place
Junior High/Middle School Full Orchestra
Cinco Ranch Junior High – 6th Place
High School Full Orchestra
Seven Lakes High School – 2nd Place
Tompkins High School – 4th Place
2C Junior High/Middle School Band
Memorial Parkway Junior High – 10th Place
6A High School Band
Tompkins High School – 9th Place
Beckdorff Junior High Orchestra
Alexander Elementary Choir
