Among the top music programs in the state, Ottawa High School has demonstrated remarkable success by securing third place in Class A with an impressive score of 735 points. The program trails behind Kewanee and Sycamore, which achieved 897 and 873 points respectively. This achievement stems from their participation in both the solo and ensemble contest held on March 8 and the organizational competition that took place April 11-12 in Coal City. With a legacy of 22 state titles, including their most recent triumph in the 2017-18 Class AA championship, Ottawa continues to excel under the guidance of Ali Stachowicz for choir and Andrew Jacobi for band.
Programmatic Excellence Recognized at State Level
Ottawa High School's music department has consistently placed within the top tier of state rankings since their last major victory. Their ability to maintain such high standards year after year is attributed not only to their students' dedication but also to their structured approach towards competitions. By excelling in various categories like solos, ensembles, and organizational performances, they have proven their versatility and commitment to excellence. Each performance carries significant weight as it contributes directly to their overall standing in the statewide evaluations.
The structure of these contests involves two distinct phases: one focusing on individual talent through solo and ensemble presentations while the other emphasizes group cohesion during organizational assessments. In the former category, participants engage in multiple events showcasing their unique abilities, whereas the latter consists of four key performances where teams can earn up to 300 points each. This dual-phase system allows judges to thoroughly evaluate every aspect of a school's musical capabilities. For Ottawa, this methodological assessment highlights their well-rounded skills across different domains.
Leadership and Legacy Fuel Continued Success
Achieving consistent success over decades requires strong leadership alongside passionate educators who inspire future generations. Under the direction of Ali Stachowicz for choral activities and Andrew Jacobi overseeing band operations, Ottawa's music program thrives due to their combined expertise. Both leaders bring innovative teaching techniques coupled with traditional methods that resonate deeply with young musicians. Consequently, their influence extends beyond mere technical proficiency into fostering creativity among students.
This tradition of excellence dates back many years, marked by numerous accolades earned throughout history. Since claiming their latest championship title several years ago, the institution has maintained its prominence without fail. Every season brings new challenges yet reaffirms Ottawa’s position as a powerhouse in educational music circles. Moreover, having secured third place recently underscores their resilience and adaptability amidst evolving competition landscapes. As they look ahead toward future tournaments, there remains no doubt about Ottawa's unwavering pursuit of greatness guided by seasoned professionals committed to nurturing artistic talents.