The honors band and orchestra programs have existed for students in grades 5-8 for many years, however this year they have been extended to high school students. This program is for advanced band and orchestra students who are to be presented with more challenging music. After eight weeks of practice in North’s Performing Arts Center, the honors orchestra will virtually perform to show off their hard work together. 

Orchestra director Noah Zogas will be working with students in this program to create a unified orchestral experience. 

“Usually, students are recommended by their instrumental director to be invited into the program,” Zogas said. “This year, with COVID-19, all students participating in the instrumental program district-wide had the opportunity to sign up.”

Those involved will experience a new, in-depth dive into music. Zogas expects bonding between students and their peers, as well as with their instruments.

“Being involved in the honors program gives students the ability to take on new and challenging music,” Zogas said. “While spending time with their peers across the district with whom they do not regularly get the opportunity to play.”

Zogas believes that the program is about more than just music, it goes deeper.

“The benefits are boundless,” Zogas said. “Making music is a way to express yourself, destress and feel like you are a part of a team. The honors ensembles give students another opportunity to get involved with music.”