Editor’s note: This is one in a series of columns.

The holidays usually bring times of thanksgiving for so many of the gifts offered to us. At the end of the football season we wish to thank all of the high school band members. They work hard on their music and field positions, often playing in bad weather. They offer their time and talent to their schools for those attending the games.

Also due our thanks are the band parents, who get their kids to practices, and earn money to support the band efforts.

Of course, directors are to be thanked as well for their guidance.

In line for thanks are the choral and elementary music teachers and their students who provide wonderful concerts during this season.

As we recognize the students’ abilities, I would like to commend some music students who go the “extra mile.”

Several Champaign County students have earned, through auditions, membership in some highly selective music performance groups.

To date:

Eighth grade students:

-Caitlin Burchett, Mechanicsburg Schools, Capital University Cadet Band, second chair first clarinet

-Mary McDavid, Urbana resident, St. Brigid School in Dublin, Watterson Honors Band, trumpet

High School students:

-Bailey Buell, Graham High School, Capital University Honors Band, trumpet

-Becky Preston, Urbana High School, Springfield Youth String Ensemble, second chair viola

-Luca Vitale, Champaign County resident, Springfield Youth Symphony, principal String Bass

Congratulations, and thank you for representing our county so well.!

Your concerts are amazing!