Lambert’s Wind Ensemble is gearing up to showcase their talent at the 77th Annual Midwest Clinic in Chicago, Illinois on December 21, 2023—the world’s largest music education convention. This year, Lambert holds the distinction of being the only band from Georgia to receive an invitation to the prestigious conference, emphasizing their dedication to musical excellence.
“I’m very excited because it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Lambert flute player Stephanie Sun said. “You get to meet a lot of different bands from around the U.S. and around the world.”
The Midwest Clinic, founded in 1946, is an annual event that attracts over 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. The gathering provides a platform for music educators, musicians and industry experts to participate in musical development, share professional experiences and exchange teaching techniques. Lambert High School proudly holds the title of being the first high school ensemble from Forsyth County to ever participate in this event.
“I’m really proud of this ensemble and we’ve worked really hard so it feels good to be here,” Lambert percussionist Shirin Sathe explained.
The Wind Ensemble is diligently preparing for the Midwest Clinic, with their rehearsals occuring every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 8p.m. They’ve also invited esteemed music experts, including the commissioned composer of their piece, “Songs of Sim Cheong,” inspired by Korean culture, to witness and offer insight during their rehearsals. The ensemble will be premiering their new commissioned piece during the event, alongside other selected pieces.
“We’ve been preparing for Midwest since May of this year,” Sun explained.
The ensemble is also looking to raise money to fund their musical trip to Chicago. On December 11, they’re hosting their Midwest Send-off Concert at the Oglethorpe University Conant Performing Arts Center with special guest Chris Martin the principal trumpet of the New York Philharmonic. He will also be joining the ensemble during their Midwest Clinic performance where he will play trumpet alongside them.
“Having the best trumpet player in the world, it’s a great honor being able to play with someone so inspirational,” Sun said.
As the ensemble prepares for their big moment, Longhorn nation is cheering them on and wishing them success at Midwest Clinic. It’s a performance that showcases Lambert’s commitment to success not only in academics, but also in the arts, emphasizing the school’s well-rounded reputation.
