On Saturday, February 13, the Chesterton High School Drifters and Sandpipers show choirs competed at the Norwell High School Show Choir Invitational in Ossian, Indiana.

In a field of strong competitors from throughout the state, both groups gave outstanding performances and took top honors in a variety of categories.

After the preliminary round, both the Drifters and Sandpipers were named finalists in the evening competition. In addition, the CHS Show Choir Band earned the award for Best Instrumentals in both the mixed and women’s divisions.

Curtis Lesnick, a senior member of Sandpipers, earned the award for Best Male Soloist in a Show.

During the evening competition, Chesterton’s groups again gave strong performances. The Drifters was named second runner-up in the women’s choir finals, finishing behind Center Grove (grand champion) and Lafayette Jefferson (first runner-up).

The Sandpipers finished as second runner-up in the evening round, placing behind Center Grove (grand champion) and Plainfield (first runner-up), and ahead of Columbia City (third) and Ft. Wayne Homestead (fourth). Center Grove won the caption awards for Best Vocals and Best Choreography in both divisions.

The CHS show choirs will now focus their attention on preparing for the “Midwest Show Choir Invitational” at Bishop Luers High School in Fort Wayne on March 6. This prestigious competition is the oldest and longest-running show choir invitational held in the United States.

In addition, the groups will begin to prepare new repertoire for the upcoming ISSMA organizational contest in April.

　Posted 2/23/2010