Over the past several weeks, I have been in the presence of a group of gold medalists. But this group of people didn’t come from the track, gridiron, or diamond. No court could be found. They were from the stage. Many local residents may not be aware that the Fredonia High School Symphonic Band has been collecting gold medals and awards of high praise from all around the country.

The most recent award came from a trip to a music tournament in Chicago. Our local musicians received a rating or Gold with Distinction setting them far apart from the many other competing schools. This isn’t the first time for these talented young performers. The band, orchestra, and chorus have been successful in many forums from their local performances to exciting places like New York City or Washington, D.C.

We read daily of the merits acquired by our youthful sports teams, as they fill the paper with stories and photos. And we know that great skills are learned by the athletes who compete. It is rewarding to us to see our favorite team’s mascot and colors blazon the newspaper sports page. Talk about the team’s success is made in the corner coffee shops and other gathering places.

I’ve never heard a group of water cooler gossip hounds discussing the absolute pitch and melody of our local high school musicians. But they should be. Success for local sports teams has been on the rise lately and they deserve applauds for their wins and advancement. The high school musicians should receive the same praise since their awards collection has been constant for quite a few years.

Just like the running back, or left fielder, each musician whether in band, orchestra or chorus, began with a love to play. For many of them it started in elementary school. The success and accolades received by the current musicians, the preceding, and the future ones, can be accredited to the caring and determined staff of music teachers that strive for these levels of excellence from their musicians.

The proof of their success can be seen in the performances that at times could mirror professionals of the trade. The steps it took to reach the pinnacle were years in the making, which shows collaboration in development from kindergarten all the way to grade 12. I salute the staff of the Fredonia Central School Music Department. Mr. Bennett, Mr. Mallory, Mr. Wey, Mr. Shanahan, Mrs. Hartung, Mrs. Terreri and newest addition, Ms. Greetham. The care toward promoting a love for music has boosted these teachers to high heights, and gained the admiration from colleagues to school officials, and parents.

It has also brought love and respect from the student musicians. These musical troupes perform throughout the year at concerts and charitable events. If readers haven’t heard the harmony of any part of this group, then you’ve missed a chance to be in the presence of gold.

But don’t fear, the chance is not totally lost. This opportunity repeats itself several times every year at the high school auditorium, and there is no rule that says only parents are allowed in. Get there early. Pick out a comfortable seat, and be prepared to become symphonically moved. Its good clean entertainment, for a sawbuck or less, the value outweighs the price.

Congratulations to the Fredonia Central School Music Department.

Kirk L. Miller is a Fredonia resident.