Showtime! Wells County

Norwell Pep Band Performances Announced

2012-01-30T07:08:00.000-08:00

The Norwell Pep Band will be performing at the following events:

Friday, Feb. 3: Girls vs. Southern Wells - Pep Band Game
Saturday, Feb. 4: Boys vs. Col. City - Pep Band Game.
Friday, Feb. 10: Jazz Ensemble - DeKalb Jazz Festival.
Saturday, Feb. 11: Jazz Ensemble - Ft. Wayne Snider Jazz Festival.
Saturday, Feb. 18: Norwell Drumline Invitational at Norwell!!!
Tuesday, Feb 21: Boys vs. Jay - Pep Band Game.
Friday, Feb. 24: vs. Huntington North - Pep Band Game.
Saturday, Feb. 25: ISSMA State Solo/Ensemble.

N-B Video: 2012 Raiders Classic Part 2

2012-01-10T10:54:00.000-08:00

The Southern Wells Singers perform for the 2012 Southern Wells Raider Classic show choir competition on Saturday, Jan. 7. To learn more about the competition, see the Monday, Jan. 9, News-Banner. We also have more performances on our Monday, Jan. 9, "Showtime!" blog. (Video by Frank Shanly)

N-B Video: 2012 Raiders Classic Part 1

2012-01-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

The Bluffton High School Musical Entourage performs for the 2012 Southern Wells Raider Classic show choir competition on Saturday, Jan. 7. To learn more about the competition, see the Monday, Jan. 9, News-Banner. We'll have more videos throughout the week. (Video by Frank Shanly)

N-B Video: The rhythm of sports

2012-01-05T11:01:00.000-08:00

The Northern Wells pep band plays during the girls' basketball game against Leo. Learn more about the game in the Thursday, Jan. 5, News-Banner. (Video by Paul Beitler)

N-B Video: Snow angel at Ossian Elementary

2011-12-16T13:42:00.001-08:00

Ossian Elementary students lament through song the loss of their snow angel during the Thursday, Dec. 15, Christmas program. The annual program was held at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. this year and featured songs such as "J

ingle Bell Rock" and "Snow Biz." (Video by Glen Werling)

Final videos of 2011 Norwell show choirs bringing Christmas joy

2011-12-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

The Norwell high and middle school choirs presented their annual Christmas show Sunday, Dec. 11. The choirs combined sacred with secular during the program, including "I'll Be Home for Christmas" featuring Kate Runyon and "Grown-Up Christmas List" by Hannah Pfaff. For more Christmas music, see earlier blog entries. (Video by Frank Shanly)

N-B Video: 2011 Norwell show choirs bring Christmas joy

2011-12-12T10:11:00.000-08:00

Norwell Show Choirs Celebrate "Christmas Joy"

2011-12-12T06:14:00.000-08:00

The Norwell high and middle school choirs treated supporters to a touch of “Christmas Joy” Sunday afternoon.

The show featured a mix of traditional Christmas carols and other popular songs, with special appearances by Santa Claus, Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman.

Jenna Meyer (pictured above) opened the show with a rendition of “Breathe of Heaven,” and the first half of the show continued the religious theme of the season.

Bailey Nodine also provided a solo performance during this portion of the show. Alyssa Noble, Lauren Fiechter and Leslie Sagstetter combined for “One Small Child,” Roni Runyon, Katie Runyon, Alyssa Noble, Hannah Porrata and Leslie Sagstetter teamed up for “”O, Holy Night” and Addy Johnson and Bailey Nodine preformed “The Prayer.” Preston Wright and Gavin Drew provided narration for the combined choirs’ first half performances.

The second half saw a more secular line-up of songs, with Maddie Boyle, Peter Evan, Lauren Fiechter, Addy Johnson, Alyssa Noble, Hannah Pfaff, Katie Runyon, Tyler Shawler and Katie Spear contributing solo efforts. Ireland Connett and Madeline Queener teamed up for “Rocking Around The Christmas Tree,” while Alexis Hathaway and Alivia Topp combined to celebrate the event on “Christmas Island.”

Special appearances were also made by Santa Claus, Rudolf the Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman.

Video of some of the performances will follow.

Show Choir Director Carla Doles reminded supporters that the competition season is now only seven weeks away, with Norwell’s first competition at Northrop on Feb. 4. The annual Norwell Invitational will take place on March 10.

Bluffton hosts its annual Christmas Show this Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the high school.

N-B Video: The music behind the baskets

2011-12-05T12:24:00.000-08:00

The Northern Wells Pep Band plays during the girls' basketball game against Homestead. Learn more about the game in the Monday, Dec. 5, News-Banner. (Video by Frank Shanly)

Norwell Show Choirs to host "Christmas Joy"

2011-12-05T11:24:00.000-08:00

There will be a touch of “Christmas Joy” on display at Norwell High School this weekend.

Sunday, Dec. 11, will see the Norwell Show Choirs, both high and middle schools, present their Holiday Christmas Show, “Christmas Joy.”

The show will begin at 2:30 p.m., with sacred and traditional Christmas songs performed. Former students of show choir Director Carla Doles will be invited once again to join in the performance of “Carol of the Bells.”

There will also be a “Silent Night Auction” for last minute Christmas shoppers. These gift baskets, offered through a silent auction, will be filled with goodies donated by the community and show choir parents.

A Candy Cane Corner will offer hot chocolate, coffee and desserts, which will be sold before the show, during intermission, and after the show.

Tickets for the show cost $7 for adults and $5 for students and may be purchased from an Norwell Show Choir student or at the door.

Proceeds from the event will be used to help fund the upcoming show choir season, as well as purchase needed items for the choirs.

Norwell's "Breakfast With Santa" at Ossian UM Church Saturday

2011-11-28T07:45:00.000-08:00

Norwell High School Show Choirs will host their annual “Breakfast With Santa” Saturday morning at the Ossian United Methodist Church.

The breakfast, which will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., will provide the opportunity to visit with Santa and for children to take their pictures with him.

The menu will include biscuits and gravy, hash browns, smoky links, cereal, donuts, dutch crunch dessert, coffee, milk and juice.

There is a $5 per person charge, however infants under the age of six months and accompanied by paying family members will be free. Pictures taken with Santa are included in the cost.

Children can also visit the Little Elves’ Store where they can shop for gifts for family members. Santa’s helpers will be available to assist children with their gift choices and wrapping. Most gifts are $2.

Money raised from the event will help towards the costs of the show choir program.

N-B Video: Dancing between the hoops

2011-11-21T10:10:00.000-08:00

Members of the Norwell High School dance team perform during the halftime of the girls' basketball game against Bluffton. Learn more about the game in the Monday, Nov. 21, News-Banner. (Video by Glen Werling)

Norwell Show Choir Bingo Fundraiser This Weekend

2011-11-11T05:15:00.001-08:00

The Norwell Show Choir program will be hosting its 8th Annual Bingo Fundraiser Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Norwell High School Cafeteria.

The winner of each game will win a bag or a designer purse, with a variety of brands available, including Vera Bradley, Coach and Guess. There will also be raffle prizes, with tickets available at the event.

Tickets to the fundraiser can be purchased from any Norwell Show Choir student or at the door. Tickets for Bingo are $20 for the 20 games.

All proceeds will benefit the Norwell Choral Department.

The doors will open at 8 a.m. and bingo will start at 9 a.m.

You must be 18 to participate.

Musical Entourage's "Magical Night of Disney" - #5 of 5

2011-11-10T13:42:00.001-08:00

Musical Entourage's "Magical Night of Disney" - #4 of 5

2011-11-10T13:36:00.000-08:00

Musical Entourage's "Magical Night of Disney" - #3 of 5

2011-11-10T13:32:00.001-08:00

Musical Entourage's "Magical Night of Disney" - #2 of 5

2011-11-10T13:28:00.001-08:00

Musical Entourage's "Magical Night of Disney" - #1 of 5

2011-11-10T13:21:00.000-08:00

Bengal Brigade Third at Weekend Mid-States Competition

2011-11-09T07:19:00.001-08:00

The Bengal Brigade competed against 23 bands from Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky at Northwood High School's Shea Stadium in Northwood Ohio, which is a located in Cincinnati. The (Mid-States competition) Class A championships consisted of a preliminary round of competition of which the top ten scoring bands moved on to finals competition in the evening.

The top three bands in prelims were:

1st - Carlisle
2nd - Archbishop Alter
3rd - Bluffton

The top three bands in finals were:

1st - Carlisle
2nd - Archbishop Alter
3rd - Bluffton

Thanks to Scott Shoup for providing these results.

Disney magic at Bluffton High School — Part 2

2011-11-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

Members of the Bluffton High School Musical Entourage unleashed a little Disney magic on Friday, Nov. 4, and Saturday, Nov. 5. Learn more in the Monday, Nov. 7, News-Banner. (Video by Frank Shanly)

Disney magic at Bluffton High School

2011-11-07T14:37:00.001-08:00

Members of the Bluffton Musical Entourage sang several songs from Walt Disney productions, including "Colors of the Wind" featuring Alyssa Thompsno. We'll have more videos throughout the week.

Bluffton Show Choirs To Host "Dinner Theatre" Over Weekend

2011-11-03T05:14:00.000-07:00

Tickets are on sale for Bluffton High School show choirs’ annual “Dinner Theatre,” scheduled for Nov. 4 and 5 at the high school.

The theme this year is “A Magical Night of Disney,” and a dinner will precede the show on both evenings.

The menu includes chicken nuggets, french fries, boneless chicken breast, potato and vegetable with an ice cream dessert.

The dinner is at 6 p.m. and the show is at 7 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Tickets for dinner and show are $15 for adults and $7 for children 10 years and younger. Tickets for the show only are $5.

The menu for the adult dinner includes poppy seed chicken, baked potato, green beans, salad and dessert. The children’s dinner menu will include chicken nuggets, french fries, green beans and dessert.

Tickets will be on sale at the door.

Thanks to Miss Breeding for supplying the photo.

Wells County school bands go to state

2011-11-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Bluffton High School Bengal Brigade

The Norwell Marching Knights

Photos by Tim Leyes

Norwell Show Choirs' 'True Colors' - #5 of 5

2011-11-01T07:02:00.001-07:00

Norwell Show Choirs' 'True Colors' - #4 of 5

2011-11-01T06:58:00.001-07:00

Norwell Show Choirs' 'True Colors' - #3 of 5

2011-11-01T06:53:00.001-07:00

Norwell Show Choirs' 'True Colors' - #2 of 5

2011-11-01T06:41:00.001-07:00

Norwell Show Choirs' 'True Colors' - #1 of 5

2011-11-01T06:35:00.000-07:00

Bluffton's Bengal Brigade at ISSMA State Championships - #2 of 2

2011-10-31T12:06:00.001-07:00

Bluffton's Bengal Brigade at ISSMA State Championships - #1 of 2

2011-10-31T12:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to both Bluffton and Norwell on another great marching band season.

And many thanks once again to David Butler for the photos in this post and the next from Bluffton's performance Saturday.

N-B Video: 2011 Norwell show choirs fall preview — "Just the Way You Are"

2011-10-31T09:42:00.000-07:00

Norwell's show choirs introduced their fans to their upcoming season with a fall preview Friday, Oct. 28, and Sunday, Oct. 30. Learn more in the Monday, Oct. 31, News-Banner. We'll have more videos throughout the week. (Video by Frank Shanly)

Come Support Your County Bands

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wells County residents will have plenty of opportunity to show their support for our county’s two successful marching bands this weekend.

Both Bluffton and Norwell will be hosting special events Friday as part of their buildups, and Bluffton will be providing a bus to Indianapolis for anyone wishing to see the Bengal Brigade perform at the State Championships.

At 2 p.m. Friday, the Bengal Brigade will be hosting a special performance of their competition program, entitled “Green” at the high school football stadium. This performance is open to the general public.

From 6:30 p.m., Norwell will be hosting “Senior Memory Night” at the Uniondale Fire Station as part of its buildup to the event. The evening will consist of a potluck dinner, with paper products, water and lemonade provided.

At this time, Norwell will not be hosting a special performance of their competition routine, as they will be competing in additional “Band of America” competitions after Saturday. A decision will be made at a later date whether to do this.

At 7 a.m. Saturday morning, a bus will depart Bluffton High School, with an estimated return time of approximately 4:30 p.m. There will be a lunch stop on the way home from Indianapolis. A seat on the bus costs $5, while an admission ticket to Lucas Oil Stadium costs $20 for an adult ticket, or $18 for a student ticket. Contact Deanna Brinneman at Bluffton High School on (260) 824-3724 to reserve a seat on the bus.

Norwell has placed third in Class C at the state championships for the past two years, and has placed in the top three on all but one occasion (2001) for the past 12 years.

This will be Bluffton’s first appearance in Class D at the state championships since 2008.

Norwell Show Choirs to Host "True Colors" Fall Show

2011-10-24T12:32:00.004-07:00

Norwell’s show choirs will be back on stage this weekend at the high school auditorium.

The Norwell High School and Middle School Choral Departments will present their annual Fall Show at the high school auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Friday evening and 2:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon.

This year’s show is entitled “True Colors”. Once again, all three show choirs - Knight Moves, Knight Stars and Knight Sounds - will be featured.

Tickets cost $5 and will be on sale at the door.

Marching Knights at Semi State

2011-10-24T12:32:00.003-07:00

Many thanks to Alice Easley for these photos.

Bengal Brigade at Semi State

2011-10-24T12:32:00.001-07:00

Many thanks to David Butler for sending us these photos of the Bengal Brigade at their Semi-State competition on Saturday.

Bluffton AND Norwell Bands both qualify for State Champs

2011-10-23T13:24:00.001-07:00

It’s official.

Wells County will have two marching bands competing at this year’s State Championships at Lucas Oil Stadium Saturday.

Both Bluffton and Norwell successfully continued on their way to the championships with gold medal winning performances at their respective Regional Championships.

Bluffton competed in the Class D semi-state championships at Franklin Community High School this past weekend, while Norwell competed in the Class C equivalent at Decatur Central in Indianapolis. This will be the 13th consecutive year Norwell has qualified for the State Champs.

Bluffton will compete at Lucas Oil Stadium at 11:44 a.m., while Norwell will compete at 6:27 p.m.

The full list of schools that have qualified for classes C and D are as follows:

Class C: Beech Grove, Concordia Lutheran, Edgewood, Fairfield, Gibson Southern, Heritage Hills, Leo, North Harrison, Norwell and Western.

Class D: Bluffton, Eastern (Greentown), Forest Park, Lewis Cass, Mater dei, Monrovia, North Posey, Paoli, Springs Valley and Woodlan.

Good luck to both bands! (Photos from the weekend to follow!)

Norwell's Marching Knights at Chesterton

2011-10-16T15:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Alice Easley for providing these photos.

Bluffton's Bengal Brigade at Lafayette Jefferson

2011-10-16T14:57:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to David Butler for these photos from Saturday's Regional Champs at Lafayette Jefferson.

County Bands Continue March to State Champs

2011-10-16T14:56:00.001-07:00

Both Bluffton and Norwell marching bands successfully continued on their way to this year’s state championships at Lucas Oil Field, with gold medal winning performances at their respective Regional Championships.

Competing in the Class D championships at Lafayette Jefferson, Bluffton’s Bengal Brigade was one of 15 bands to secure a gold rating for its performance, however only 10 can move on to Semi-State in each class.

Joining Bluffton in this Saturday’s competition at Franklin Community High School in Franklin, will be Adams Central, Eastern (Greentown), Eastside, Elwood, Lewis Cass, Monrovia, Morristown, Taylor and Woodlan.

Bluffton will take the field at Franklin Community at 4:02 p.m.

A total of 14 bands competing in the Class C championships at Chesterton achieved gold ratings, however once again, only the top 10 were able to move on. This meant area bands Northwood, Garrett and Heritage failed to qualify.

Joining Norwell’s Marching Knights at Semi-State at Decatur Central in Indianapolis this Saturday will be Concordia Lutheran, Fairfield, John Glenn, Knox, Leo, Maconaquah, Northwestern, Twin Lakes and Western.

Norwell compete at 4;15 p.m.

For Knox, qualification at this stage presented a special challenge, as their drum major was killed in an automobile accident last week.

Photos to follow. Good luck to both Bluffton and Norwell for this coming weekend!

Bluffton and Norwell Bands Complete Busy Competition Weekend

2011-10-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

It wasn’t quite a perfect weekend for Wells County’s marching bands, but it wasn’t too bad either with one first, three seconds, and a bunch of caption awards.

Both Bluffton and Norwell contested a double header of competitions Saturday, performing first at Homestead’s “Fall Festival of Bands”, and then Snider’s “Mighty Panther Parade of Champions”, which was actually held at Wayne High School.

Competing in Class C, Norwell’s Marching Knights secured top honors, along with the caption awards for Best Music, best Visual and Best General Effect, at Snider’s competition, but were edged into second by Concordia Lutheran at Homestead. There, Norwell won the caption award for Best Music, and tied for Best Visual with Concordia Lutheran, who claimed the caption for Best General Effect.

Competing in Class D, Bluffton’s Bengal Brigade recorded a pair of second placings. They were edged out by Adams Central at Homestead, however Bluffton did claim the caption award for Best Visual. At Snider, it was Woodlan who beat out the Bengal Brigade, although again, Bluffton claimed the Best Visual caption award.

Both bands contest the ISSMA Regional Championships this weekend, as they stake their respective claims for a spot in the State Finals at Lucas Oil Stadium on Oct. 29.

Bluffton will perform at the Class D championships at Lafayette Jefferson at 12:44 p.m.

Norwell will perform at the Class C championships at Chesterton at 1:23 p.m.

Thanks to Norwell Music Boosters for the photos - one each of Bluffton and Norwell.

N-B Slideshow: 2011 Bluffton Free Street Fair

2011-10-07T13:05:00.001-07:00

Photos From Norwell's Visit to Homestead Last Weekend

2011-10-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Norwell Music Boosters for providing these photos.

Both Bluffton and Norwell will be at Homestead AND Snider this weekend for a double header of ISSMA competitions.

Good luck to both bands!

Photo's From Bluffton's Visit to Homestead Last Weekend

2011-10-05T11:35:00.000-07:00

Many thanks once again to David Butler for sending in the above photos from the "Bengal Brigade's" performance at Homestead over the weekend.

Bluffton will be contesting a double header of competitions this weekend, competing at Homestead in the morning and Snider (actually at Wayne High School due to sharing of facilities by Fort Wayne Schools) in the afternoon.

Bluffton and Norwell Qualify For 2011 ISSMA Regionals

2011-10-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Both Bluffton and Norwell marching bands successfully negotiated their first hurdle on the way to this year’s state championships at Lucas Oil Field.

Competing Saturday in the ISSMA District Championships in Homestead, both bands secured gold ratings in their respective classes, to move on to the regional championships stage, in two weeks time. Norwell also secured the “Best Visual” caption award in their class.

Bluffton competes in Class D in ISSMA competitions, while Norwell competes in Class C.

(Photos from the weekend will be posted in the next post).

Both will have a big double-header shakedown next weekend in preparation for that appearance, competing at Homestead in the morning, then Snider (at Wayne High School as Fort Wayne Schools are sharing facilities) in the afternoon.

The ISSMA Regional Championships for Class C will be at Chesterton in two weeks, while Class D will be at Lafayette Jefferson. Both competitions will be on Oct. 15.

Bluffton's "Bengal Brigade" at Hamilton Southeastern

2011-10-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm running a little behind, but better late than never - I hope.

Many thanks to David Butler for sending in this photo of Bluffton's "Bengal Brigade" at the Mid-States Band Association competition at Fishers on Sept. 24.

Bluffton placed first in their class, and also won the caption awards for "Best Music" and "Best Visual".

County Marching Bands Top Weekend Competitions

2011-09-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

Both Bluffton and Norwell marching bands had plenty to shout about Saturday.

Competing at different competitions, both the Bengal Brigade and the Marching Knights (pictured above) took top honors in their respective classes.

Bluffton, competing in a Mid-States competition at Hamilton Southeastern in Fishers placed first, and also won “Best Music” and “Best Visual” caption awards in their class. Mid-States competitions are grouped according to the number of members in each band, as opposed to ISSMA’s grouping according to the number of students in each school, so Bluffton was competing in Class A in Fishers.

Crawfordsville placed second and won the caption award for “Best Effect”, while Connorsville placed third.

Competing at Penn High School in Mishawaka, Norwell made it four wins from four competitions for the year, winning Class C in their ISSMA competition, and also claiming the caption awards for “Best Music”, “Best Visual” and “Best General Effect.

Norwell beat out Leo, Fairfield and John Glenn in their division.

Thanks to the Norwell Music Boosters for the photo that went with this post. Photos of Bluffton will follow.

Both Bluffton and Norwell compete at Homestead Saturday. Bluffton will compete in Class D at 11:26 a.m., while Norwell competes in Class C at 1: 36 p.m.

2011 Street Fair -Show Choir Competition

2011-09-23T13:24:00.001-07:00

Watch the Bluffton High School "Musical Entourage" start the evening and the Norwell Knight Moves defy the rain at the Street Fair Show Choir competition. Learn more in the Friday, September 23, News-Banner. Catch more performances on our "Street Fair" blog in our blog bank at www.news-banner.com. (Video by Frank Shanly)

County Bands Shine in Weekend Competition

2011-09-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

It was a busy, and successful Saturday weekend for both Norwell and Bluffton marching bands after competitions at Dekalb and New Haven.

For Norwell’s Marching Knights, pictured above, the return was especially rewarding, as they attended both competitions, and placed first in Class C at both events. At Dekalb, the Marching Knights also picked up the caption awards for “Best Music” and “Best Visual,” while at New Haven, they collected “Best Music,” Best Visual” and “Best General Effect.”

Competing at Dekalb, Bluffton’s Bengal Brigade placed second in Class D, behind Woodlan. Bluffton won the caption award for “Best Music”, but were edged by Woodlan for “Best Visual” and “Best General Effect.”

Bluffton compete at 5:15 p.m. at Hamilton Southeastern this Saturday, in a Midstates competition.

Norwell will compete at 5:06 p.m. at Penn High School in Mishawaka on Saturday.

Weekend results from Dekalb and New Haven are as follows:

At Dekalb:
Class A: 1-Homestead, 2-Northrop, 3-Huntington North, 4-Warsaw; Music- Homestead, Visual-Homestead, General Effect- Homestead.
Class B: 1-North Side, 2-East Noble, 3-Columbia City, 4-Wayne, 5-Bishop Dwenger, 6-South Side; Music-North Side, Visual-North Side, General Effect-North Side.
Class C: 1-Norwell, 2-Concordia Lutheran, 3-Leo, 4-Heritage, 5-North Wood, 6-Garrett, 7-Bellmont; Music-Norwell, Visual-Norwell, General Effect-Concordia Lutheran.
Class D: 1-Woodlan, 2-Bluffton, 3-Eastside, 4-Hicksville, Ohio; Music-Bluffton, Visual-Woodlan, General Effect-Woodlan.

At New Haven:
Class A: 1-Carroll, 2-Huntington North; Music- Carroll, Visual-Carroll, General Effect-Carroll, Pit Crew-Huntington North.
Class B: 1-DeKalb, 2-East Noble, 3-Wayne, 4-South Side; Music-DeKalb, Visual-DeKalb, General Effect-DeKalb, Pit Crew-Wayne.
Class C: 1-Norwell, 2-Heritage; Music-Norwell; Visual-Norwell, General Effect-Norwell, Pit Crew-Heritage.

Thanks to the Norwell Music Boosters for the photo. Check their band web site at www.norwellbands.webs.com

Bluffton Performs "On The Banks Of The Wabash"

2011-09-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

The Bengal Brigade on its NEW home turf!

Norwell Performs "On The Banks of the Wabash"

2011-09-13T05:33:00.000-07:00

A few pics from Norwell's performance Saturday. Bluffton to follow......

Marching Knights "Parent Preview" - #2 of 2

2011-09-12T07:51:00.001-07:00

Marching Knights "Parent Preview" - #1 of 2

2011-09-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

Prior to their departure for "On The Banks Of The Wabash" Saturday, Norwell's Marching Knights showed their parents and other family members how they do what they do.

We have two sets of photos from this part of the afternoon, and also a brief video clip to follow.

Norwell, Homestead, Dekalb and Woodlan the big winners "On The Banks Of The Wabash"

2011-09-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Bluffton High School’s new look Fred Park Field went on display to representatives from schools all over Northeast Indiana Saturday, as Bluffton hosted its 34th annual “On The Banks Of The Wabash” marching band competition.

After the less than spectacular weather of the previous week, bands from 20 area schools and their supporters were greeted to a bright sunny day, and a solid track on which to perform their respective routines. At the close of competition, Bluffton’s “Bengal Brigade” performed an exhibition of their season’s competition routine, “Green,” just prior to the final awards.

And while the field may have been different, the results were almost a repeat of last year with Homestead (Class A), Dekalb (Class B), Norwell (Class C) and Woodlan (Class D) once again taking out the top honors in their respective groups, and Homestead once again taking the “Grand Champion" award, scoring the most points across all four classes.

This year wasn’t quite the clean sweep of last year however.

While Homestead, Norwell and Woodlan claimed all three caption awards in their classes, Angola’s Hornet Brigade was able to steal the “Best Visual” caption from Dekalb in Class B. The Baron Brigade however did secure "Best General Effect" and "Best Music," enabling them to secure the class title.

IPFW Band Director and Director of Instrumental Studies Dr. Chad Nicholson presented the awards in all four classes.

Both Bluffton and Norwell travel to Dekalb for competition this weekend. Bluffton will compete in Class D, while Norwell will compete in Class C.

Full results from “On The Banks of the Wabash” are as follows:

Class A:
1st — Homestead.
2nd — Carroll.
3rd — Northrop.
4th — Snider.
5th — Huntington North.
Visual — Homestead.
Music — Homestead.
General Effect — Homestead.

Class B:
1st — Dekalb.
2nd — Angola.
3rd — East Noble.
4th — Columbia City.
5th — Bishop Dwenger.
6th — Wayne.
Visual — Dekalb.
Music — Dekalb.
General Effect — Angola.

Class C:
1st — Norwell.
2nd — Concordia.
3rd — Heritage.
4th — Garrett.
5th — New Haven.
Visual — Norwell.
Music — Norwell.
General Effect — Norwell.

Class D:
1st — Woodlan.
2nd — Adams Central.
3rd — Eastside.
4th — Bremen.
Visual — Woodlan.
Music — Woodlan.
General Effect — Woodlan.

Additional photos and video from the event will be posted over the coming week.

N-B Video: The good news at Kehoe

2011-08-29T17:18:00.001-07:00

To finish off the summer concert series. two gospel groups sang Sunday, Aug. 28. The Berne First Missionary Church opened up for the Hoosier Harmony Quartet. Learn more in the Monday, Aug. 29, News-Banner. (Video by Barbara Barbieri)

N-B Video: Johnny Cash and Friends come to Kehoe Park

2011-08-08T11:34:00.001-07:00

As part of the Kehoe Park Summer Concert series, the group Johnny Cash and Friends came to relive the songs that Cash — and others — made famous. (Video by Barb Barbieri)

N-B Video: Biff and the Cruisers rock Kehoe Park

2011-08-01T10:06:00.001-07:00

Biff and the Cruisers continued the Kehoe Park Summer Concert series with tunes from the 80s, 90s and more. (Video by Barbara Barbieri)

N-B Video: Spike & the Bulldogs groove back in Bluffton

2011-07-11T13:55:00.001-07:00

Spike & the Bulldogs kicked off the summer concert series at Kehoe Park Sunday, July 10. Video by Barbara Barbieri)

N-B Video: Gershwin jazzes up Bluffton

2011-06-20T09:52:00.000-07:00

The Creative Arts Council held its "Gershwin & Jazz" on the patio of the Arts, Commerce & Visitors Centre Sunday.

N-B Video: Beginning ballerinas end the week dancing

2011-06-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

The School of Ballet, part of the Creative Arts Council of Wells County, completed a week of instruction for beginning ballerinas. To celebrate, the dancers performed during an open house Friday, June 17. (Video by Barbara Barbieri)

N-B Video: Bluffton show choirs take the stage one last time this year

2011-05-19T10:41:00.001-07:00

Nine Bluffton seniors made their final appearance with "Musical Entourage" during the Bluffton High School show choir's Wednesday performance. To celebrate, the high school choir performed several selections from its past season, and they teamed up with the seventh and eighth grade choirs for several numbers. Learn more in the Thursday, May 19, News-Banner.

N-B Video: N-B Video: Norwell Middle and High School choirs present "Reflections: Welcome to the '80s!"

2011-05-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

Norwell's show choirs wrapped up a year of unexpected success with their end-of-year concert Friday, May 6, and Saturday, May 7. Now you can enjoy several selections from the evening.

Norwell's 2011 '80's Reflection - Post #5 of 5

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Norwell's 2011 '80's Reflection - Post #4 of 5

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Norwell's 2011 '80's Reflection - Post #3 of 5

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Norwell's 2011 '80's Reflection - Post #2 of 5

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Norwell's 2011 '80's Reflection - Post #1 of 5

2011-05-10T05:51:00.000-07:00

Norwell Show Choirs End 'Cinderalla Year'

2011-05-09T12:35:00.001-07:00

Norwell’s show choirs wrapped up a year of unexpected success with their end of year “Reflections - Welcome to the ‘80s” show at the high school auditorium Saturday evening, and introduced the "People's Choice" trophy (see the photo above) they won in New York to their supporters.

The full story is in the News-Banner (Monday, May 9), and photos and video from the show will be posted shortly.

Special congratulations to the eight graduating seniors - Brandon Johnson, Tim McBride, Paige Meyer, Missy Nolan, Abby Pfaff, Jake Price, Bryan Schmidt and Cassie Welches. Good luck for the future!

The BHS Tiger Dance Company: "Drove All Night"

2011-05-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

Bluffton High School's new Tiger Dance Company presented its first show Saturday, May 9, raising funds for charity and bidding farewell to four seniors. See the Monday, May 9, News-Banner for more details. Go to www.news-banner.com.

Tiger Dance Company Presents First Charity Show

2011-05-09T06:13:00.001-07:00

Bluffton High School’s new Tiger Dance Company presented its first show Saturday afternoon, raising funds for charity and bidding farewell to four senior members who will not be able to perform at future shows due to graduation.

Taylor Coratti, Lexi Garrett, Megan Hunter and Aja Hurst made their first and last appearances with the new group in a show which featured dancing representing three genres – lyrical, jazz and hip hop. Several members of the dance company also perform with Bluffton’s show choir, “Musical Entourage” which opened the show with performances of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidociuos” and “Alice’s Theme.”

Funds raised from the show benefited the Andrea Rizzo Memorial Foundation – a charity dedicated to the memory of Andrea Rizzo, who survived cancer as a young child but was then killed by a drunk driver while attending graduate school for dance therapy.

First year English/Language Arts teacher Amanda Berhalter (pictured above at far left during the "senior tribute" portion of the show with, continuing left, Hurst, Hunter, Garrett and Coratti) began the company shortly after Christmas. She hopes to make the show an annual event, and if the enthusiasm shown by the students is any indication, she will have plenty of students signing up to participate.

New Tiger Dance Company Performing For Charity Saturday

2011-05-05T05:21:00.000-07:00

Bluffton High School has a new dance troupe, and the students will be strutting their stuff for the public Saturday, in an effort to raise funds for charity.

English/Language Arts Teacher Amanda Berhalter started the group just after Christmas break. Saturday afternoon, they will be performing in an attempt to raise funds for the Andrea Rizzo Memorial Foundation in the first (of what Berhalter hopes will become an annual event) Tiger Dance Company Charity Dance Show.

Over 30 dancers will be performing, and will showcase three genres of dance - hip hop, jazz and lyrical dance styles.

Bluffton’s show choir, “Musical Entourage” will also perform at the show.

The Andrea Rizzo Memorial Foundation is dedicated to Andrea Rizzo, who survived cancer as a young child but was killed by a drunk driver while attending graduate school for Dance Therapy. Through the help of donations, this foundation provides dance therapy to children with cancer and other special needs.

“All proceeds from the show will be benefitting the foundation,” advised Berhalter. “We will have buttons and pamphlets for those who are interested in learning more about the Andrea Rizzo Memorial Foundation.”

The show begins at 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Bluffton High School. Tickets cost $5. The order of performance for the show is as follows:

1: Bluffton’s “Musical Entourage” (three routines)

2: Intermission (15 minutes)

3: Dance Opening “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”

4: Lyrical Dance - “It Doesn’t Hurt” by Katie Thompson (Dancers: Morgan Napier, Hope Gerber, Mykayla Rodenbeck, Saylor Roper, Megan Hunter, Sheridan Dove, Jenna Yonker and Alyssa Hunter)

5: Jazz Dance - “Life of the Party” by Idina Menzel (Dancers: Saylor Roper, Kasey Craig, Kassandra Gerwig, Kim Captain, Katherine Elliot and Alyssa Hunter)

6: Hip Hop dance mix (Dancers: Kristen Jennings, Aja Hurst, Emma Frauhiger, Saylor Roper, Lexi Garrett, Taylor Barker, Taylor Coratti, Kim Captain, Lakyne Napier, Hope Gerber, Rose Lima, Kendra Morey, Kassandra Gerwig, Allie Thayer and Katherine Elliot)

7: Jazz Dance - “I Drove All Night” by Celine Dion (Dancers: Emma Frauhiger, Kristen Jennings, Aja Hurst, Sheridan Dove, Megan Hunter,

Connelly Mettler, Kendall Shreiber, Mykayla Rodenbeck, Taylor Barker, Taylor Coratti and Hope Gerber)

8: Closing - “Firework”

Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #6 of 6

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Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #5 of 6

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Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #4 of 6

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Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #3 of 6

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Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #2 of 6

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Broadway Comes To Bluffton - #1 of 6

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Norwell Show Choirs To End Year With '80's Reflection

2011-05-02T12:26:00.000-07:00

Norwell’s show choirs wrap up their year with a trip back to the 1980s this weekend.

The Norwell High School and Middle School Choirs will present “Reflections ~ Welcome to the ‘80s” at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday, May 6, and Saturday, May 7, in the high school auditorium.

The doors will open at 7 p.m.

At the conclusion of Saturday’s show, choir seniors and their parents will be recognized and honored in a special ceremony.

Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for adults and may be purchased from any choir member or at the door on the performance evenings.

"Musical Entourage" Presents a night on Broadway

2011-05-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Bluffton show choir fans were treated to a touch of Broadway Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Bluffton High School’s “Musical Entourage” performed numbers from several Broadway musicals, as well as their 2011 show choir competition routine, at their annual “A Night on Broadway” fundraiser and dinner. The choir members performed songs from no less than 11 different Broadway musicals, including "Mamma Mia", "Chess", "Annie" and "Wicked".

The evening began with a gourmet-style dinner, organized by Rhonda Gerber, with tables served by the students.

The show started an hour later with “Musical Entourage” reprising their 2011 competition show.

As the focus switched to Broadway, the full cast performed “As Long As You’re Mine” from “Wicked”, “Superclifragilisticexpialidocious” from “Mary Poppins”, and “Alice’s Theme” from “Alice in Wonderland”. The choreography for the latter two of these was arranged by choir member Aja Hurst, and included solo spots performed by Naomi Ifer, Taylor White, Catie Campbell, Carson Addington and Lizvette Echevarria.

Kristan Brinneman, Jenna Feeback, Payton Fugate, Hope Gerber, Naomi Ifer and Makayla Rodenbeck performed solo routines, while duets were performed by Feeback and Ifer, Taylor White and Lexie Garrett, Mallory Bowman and Alyssa Thompson, Macy Reiff and Kiersten Mettler and Lara Stroud and Cierra Wellman.

Bluffton’s show choir program will present its final show of the year at the high school on Wednesday, May 18, with this year’s graduating seniors making their final appearances with “Musical Entourage”.

More photos and video from the show will be posted here over the course of the next few days.

Visit Broadway with the Bluffton High School show choir

2011-05-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Bluffton High School Show Choir held its "A Night on Broadway" fundraiser on Saturday, April 30. Students performed selections from "Wicked," "Mary Poppins" and more. Read the Monday, May 2, News-Banner for more details.

Tickets on Sale for Bluffton Show Choir's Annual 'Dinner Theatre'

2011-04-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

Tickets are on sale and auditions are underway for Bluffton High School’s annual “Dinner Theatre,” scheduled for April 29 and 30.

Members of Bluffton’s “Musical Entourage” show choir have been auditioning for the special performance slots on the show, and rehearsal of the group performances is also in full swing. (The photo above is from a rehearsal.)

The theme this year is “A Night On Broadway,” and a dinner will precede the show on both evenings.

The menu is boneless chicken breast, potato and vegetable with an ice cream dessert.

The dinner is at 6 p.m. and the show is at 7 p.m. on Friday April 29 and Saturday April 30. Tickets for dinner are $15 for the meal and show or $5 at the door for the show only.

Tickets may be purchased from any choir member or by calling Jeff Bowman at 273-1050.

Tickets for the meal must be purchased before April 25 to assist with catering arrangements.

Wells County 's "Other Connection" to the Finale Nationals

2011-04-12T13:58:00.001-07:00

It seems that the “Norwell connection” was even more of a winner in the Finale Nationals in New York than we first thought.

In the “Swingers Unlimited” group from Marysville, Ohio, which placed second runner-up in the Large Mixed Division, was senior Marissa Milholland.

Milholland is the granddaughter of Don and Judy Milholland of Uniondale, and the daughter of Eric and Alicia Milholland.

Eric himself is a Norwell graduate.

No Place Like Home

2011-04-11T12:48:00.001-07:00

Norwell High School's show choirs return home after conquering New York, New York. See Monday's News-Banner to learn how they did.

Welcome home Norwell!

2011-04-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Norwell show choir students arrived back at school safe and sound, but very tired, this morning.

Check this morning's News-Banner for the full story of their successful trip to New York.

Great Effort Norwell!

2011-04-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Three second placings from three divisions, and the "People's Choice" Award. The Music Boosters have asked that I pass on their (and the students') thanks to the community for turning out to vote online in the "People's Choice" category, and the support in general. A great result all round for our tiny county against schools, many much bigger than Norwell, from all over the country. Big kudos to the kids (and Mrs. Doles and her team) too. Only two schools placed in the top three in all three divisions they were eligible to contest, and Norwell was one of them. Magnificent effort! Watch Monday's News-Banner for our story.

Update from New York!

2011-04-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Missy Nolan and Abby Pfaff competed in the solo competition at the Finale Nationals in New York this morning. We probably won't know how they did until the finalists are announced at 6:15 p.m. Saturday though. (The Solo Division continues throughout the day today).

The students are attending clinics throughout the day, and a dance/pizza party this evening. They have a full day of competition ahead Saturday.

I found today that when you tune in to www.finalenationals.com to watch the shows (and to vote for the "Knight Moves" in the "People's Choice" category) you will have to register first. It only takes a few minutes, but just don't wait until the last minute to tune in!

(I'm assuming they are trying to build up a mailing list. Hopefully that won't put anyone off - if you're new to Show Choir, this competition might just get you hooked and wanting to know more about the events!)

Re-arranged Schedule for Norwell Show Choirs in New York

2011-04-07T06:14:00.000-07:00

Norwell’s show choirs arrived safely in New York City Wednesday evening, however, their original schedule didn’t survive the trip.

Even before the students had arrived in “The Big Apple,” the competition schedule had been changed.

“Some of the schools competing were concerned that the schedule didn’t allow them time to attend all the clinics,” advised Music Booster representative Denny Meyer. As a result, competition organizers have now scheduled all competition on Saturday, with workshops run by professional performers off Broadway continuing through Friday.

Meyer had flown ahead of the group to ensure the arrangements at their hotel were all copacetic. Given that the original schedule had the students arrive at the hotel at 6:30 p.m., but then attend the “Lion King” production on Broadway at 8 p.m., there would have been little time to deal with any issues on arrival.

Under the new schedule, there will now be no competition on Friday.

The “Knight Stars” will compete in the Women’s Division at 10:10 a.m. Saturday.

The “Knight Moves” will compete in the Small Mixed Division at 1:35 p.m. Saturday.

The top four choirs from each division will then progress to the finals in the evening. The Women’s Division finals will begin at 6:45 p.m. The Small Mixed Division finals will begin at 8:15 p.m.

The schedule for the solo competition has not yet been announced. Seniors Melissa Nolan and Abby Pfaff will represent Norwell in this division. Each participating school was limited to two students in this division.

All competition will be held in the Hammerstein Opera House, on West 34th Street, between 7th and 8th avenues.

The competition can be followed online throughout Saturday at www.finalenationals.com and the opportunity to vote (up to four times) for the “Knight Moves” in the “People’s Choice” category will also be available on Saturday.

(Norwell Music Boosters are requesting that all “People’s Choice” votes be cast for the “Knight Moves” to ensure their support is not split between the two choirs, and give them a better chance of beating the bigger schools they are competing against.)

So far, Norwell has not yet been notified as to whether they will be asked to perform on “The Today Show.” Four of the participating choirs will be selected to perform each morning - one per day - Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - to perform live on the show.

Thursday sees the students attend a 9:30 a.m. rehearsal of their show, and attend clinics throughout the day. The clinics concentrate on vocal performance, dance and acting. This evening, they will attend the musical “Wicked” on Broadway.

Norwell Show Choirs in New York - Wednesday

2011-04-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

The crew departed on schedule last night in two busses, and are scheduled to arrive at their hotel at 6:30 p.m. this evening. (The photo above was taken at the school just prior to departure last night.)

There won't be much time to settle in however, as they are schedules to be at "The Lion King" on Broadway at 8 p.m. The students won't know until they arrive whether they are scheduled to appear on tomorrow's "Today Show."

We will be getting regular updates from New York and posting updates, both here and on the News-Banner facebook page, as they come in.

Norwell's Music Extravaganza

2011-04-06T05:42:00.001-07:00

The Bluffton News-Banner is pleased to present several songs from the Norwell Show Choir's Music Extravaganza from Saturday, April 2.

Come back later today for more footage, and we'll keep you up to date through the blog and Facebook as the show choirs try to conquer New York, New York.

Norwell Hosts "Music Extravaganza"

2011-04-05T06:49:00.000-07:00

Northern Wells Community Schools’ most musically talented strutted their stuff at the high school Saturday evening in the annual “Music Extravaganza.”

Band, drum lines, and show choirs from Norwell middle and high schools, plus Ossian and Lancaster elementaries all performed in a show that helped raised funds for the school system’s music programs.

In addition to group performances, a number of students also showcased their talents with solo spots. Melissa Nolan, Lauren Fiechter (pictured above), Teyler Siples, Alivia Topp, Kaleb Cook, Addy Jo Johnson, Chloe Price, Libby Smith, Abbi Reichard, Jessica McMillen, Kieren Vieth, Tara Hughes, Hannah Pfaff, Paige Meyer and Savannah Butler all featured in this capacity.

Video and photos from the event will be posted here just a little later in the week. Don't forget to come down to Norwell tonight (Tuesday) to farewell the "Knight Moves" and "Knight Stars" as they leave for their big competition in New York. The bus will be leaving just a little after 9:30 p.m. See ya there!

Richard's restaurant in Bluffton Gives Norwell Show Choirs a Boost

2011-04-01T06:11:00.000-07:00

Julie McKee of Richards' Restaurant in Bluffton presents a check for $405 to Norwell show choir members Missy Nolan, Veronica Runyon and Lauren Fiechter Thursday afternoon.

The check will help meet the costs involved in the show choirs' trip to New York this week, where both the "Knight Stars" and "Knight Moves" will compete for prize money and scholarships against schools from all over the country.

The choirs will depart Tuesday evening, and compete Friday and Saturday - we'll have a lot more about that next week in the News-Banner and Ossian Journal.

Schedules Announced for Saturday Fundraisers

2011-03-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

Both Norwell and Southern Wells music boosters will be hosting "dinner and show" fundraisers Saturday, featuring performances by all school choirs and bands.

Southern Wells starts its afternoon at 4 p.m., with an all you can eat Dan’s Fish and Chicken dinner, which will be served through to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $8 and are available by calling Rhonda Stoffer at 260-375-3051 by Thursday. There will be a limited number of tickets available at the door.

Norwell’s show choirs and bands will join forces for a “Musical Extravaganza” at the high school Saturday afternoon and evening. In past years, this event has been known as the “Pork Chop Dinner” fundraiser, however, with a greater variety of food available this year, the name has been changed.

Music students from Norwell high and middle schools, as well as Ossian and Lancaster elementaries will strut their stuff on stage as they attempt to raise funds to help keep their programs alive and well.

A variety of food, catered by Back 40 Junction, will also be available. For $8, a dinner of either chicken or pork can be purchased. This includes a chicken quarter or a six-ounce pork loin, red potatoes, corn, a roll, a drink and dessert. For $4, a hot dog dinner can be purchased, including a hot dog, chips, applesauce or vegetable, a drink and dessert. Admission is free to anyone who purchases a dinner. For the show only, the cost will be $2. Admission is free to any Norwell student.

The full schedule of performances at the two schools are:

Southern Wells:

4:15 p.m. - Southern Wells Junior High Band

4:30 p.m. - Southern Wells 6th Grade band

4:50 p.m. - Southern Wells High School band

5:20 p.m. - Southern Wells Junior High Choir

5:30 p.m. - “In Harmony” Show Choir

6 p.m. - Southern Wells High School Choir

6:25 p.m. - “Raider Rhythm” Show Choir

7 p.m. “New Horizons” Show Choir

Norwell:

4:30 p.m. - Ossian Elementary “Jungle Book”

4:45 p.m. - Lancaster Elementary “Bopping Bobcats”

5 p.m. - “Knight Stars” (Girls’) Show Choir

5:30 p.m. - “Knight Sounds” (Middle School) Show Choir

6 p.m. - “Knight Moves” (Mixed) Show Choir

6:30 p.m. - set up/transition time from choirs to bands

6:45 p.m. - Middle School 6th grade band

7 p.m. - Middle School 7th grade band

7:15 p.m. - Middle School 8th grade band

7:30 p.m. - High School Percussion Ensemble

8 p.m. - High School Concert Band

8:15 p.m. - High School Jazz Band

8:30 p.m. - High School Pep Band

9 p.m. - High School Winter Drumline

Note that between each scheduled performance at Norwell, there will be special performances by individuals or smaller groups.

Norwell Drum Line Places 3rd at State Champs

2011-03-22T05:16:00.000-07:00

Norwell’s drum line finished its competition season at Ben Davis High School Saturday, placing third in the state championships.

Norwell’s performance earned it 87.088 points, finishing behind Greenfield Central (89.375) and Mount Vernon (87.875). Martinsville (84.950) was fourth, a clear two points behind Norwell.

The third placing equalled that of Norwell’s marching band last fall.

Many thanks to Tomi Harrison for the photos, and her help with drum line and band photos and information throughout the year.

Norwell Drum Line Ready For State Champs

2011-03-18T06:10:00.000-07:00

Norwell's drum line went through its paces one final time at the high school last night, with a special performance for the community. The crew will be competing at the State Championships Saturday.

Thanks to Tomi Harrison for providing photos.

Norwell Show Choirs Shine at Carroll

2011-03-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

Norwell’s show choirs concluded their regular season competitions with their best results of the season at Carroll High School Saturday.

With 11 choirs in each of the Small Mixed and Women’s divisions, this was the biggest event of Norwell’s 2011 season.

In claiming “Grand Champion” of the Small Mixed Division, the “Knight Moves” headed off Dekalb and Northridge, winning “Best Choreography” and “Best Vocals” in the process. Progressing to the evening competition, where they faced the top four choirs from the Large Mixed Division - Carmel, Huntington North, Zionsville and Franklin Central. In this competition, Norwell placed first runner-up behind Carmel. Carmel also won the caption awards for “Best Choreography” and “Best Vocals.” Zionsville placed second runner-up, while Huntington North won the caption for “Best Stage Crew.”

The Women’s Division proved to be a real three-way fight between Norwell, Carmel and Zionsville. Carmel had inflicted the season’s only defeat on the “Knight Stars”, so Norwell was especially eager to reverse that result. As the awards were announced, it initially appeared they had been unsuccessful, with Zionsville winning the caption award for “Best Vocals” and Carmel winning “Best Choreography.” Overall however, the “Knight Stars” had secured enough points to edge out both to take top honors in the division, with Zionsville in first runner-up position.

Addie Johnson was named “Best Performer” for the “Knight Stars” (24-1) while Tim McBride was “Best Performer” for the “Knight Moves.” (19-1).

The “Knight Sounds”, Norwell’s middle school choir, didn’t compete at Carroll but finished the season 5-1.

Norwell’s “Knight Moves” and “Knight Stars” now look to their scheduled April 8-9 performances in New York as they aim to add national recognition to their list of achievements for the season.

Norwell Drum Line Qualifies For State Champs

2011-03-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

Norwell’s drum line qualified for their State Championships with a top placing at the State Prelims competition at Avon Saturday.

Norwell edged out Greenfield Central and Mt. Vernon to win their division.

This coming Saturday (March 19), Norwell will contest the State Championships at Ben Davis. Norwell will face the percussion ensembles (listed in performance order) of Northview High School, Martinsville High School, North Harrison, Zionsville, Greenwood, Vincennes, Avon, East Noble, Mt. Vernon, Greenfield Central and Carroll.

Norwell’s drum line will host a community performance at 8:15 p.m. Thursday, March 17th, at Norwell High School Gym. The show is free, and will provide Wells County with a final chance to show its support to the group as they head off for their big season finale.

Historic Weekend for Norwell Show Choir Program

2011-03-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

All three of Norwell’s show choirs continued their successful season Saturday at Homestead, however it was the middle school choir that made school history.

Competing against St. Joseph/St. Eliz, Indian Springs, and Northwood, the “Knight Sounds” won a Grand Championship for the very first time in history of the middle school group. The “Knight Sounds” are in their sixth year of existence as a show choir, and the group consists of 28 middle school students.

The “Knight Sounds” also won the caption award for “Best Vocals,” while Northwood won “Best Choreography” and placed first runner-up. Indian Springs placed second runner-up.

The “Knight Moves” were Grand Champions in the Small Mixed Choir division, ahead of Southmont and Columbia City, and won the caption awards for Best Choreography and Best Vocals. The group then competed in the evening show against the top choirs from the Large Mixed Division and placed 2nd Runner-up behind Carmel and Huntington North, and winning the “Best Choreography” caption award. Carmel won “Best Vocals.”

The “Knight Stars” placed 1st Runner-up in the Women’s Division, behind Carmel. Carmel won both caption awards - “Best Choreography” and “Best Vocals.”

“Best Performer” awards in Norwell’s three choirs went to Kalesha Puckett (“Knight Stars,”) Bryan Schmidt (“Knight Moves”) and Jordyn Shaffer (“Knight Sounds.”)

The “Knight Stars” season record in Women’s competition now stands at 14-1. The “Knight Moves” are 9-1 in Small Mixed competition, while the “Knight Sounds” are 5-1 in Middle School competition.

Norwell’s show choirs will travel to Carroll for their final competition show of the regular season before heading to New York in April to compete.

Photos From Norwell Drum Line at Warsaw - #3 of 3

2011-03-08T06:23:00.000-08:00

Thanks once again to Tomi Harrison for the pics.

Photos From Norwell Drum Line at Warsaw - #2 of 3

2011-03-08T06:14:00.000-08:00

Thanks again to Tomi Harrison for the pics.