Governor Proclaims December 18, 2024 as Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble Day in Minnesota

The Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble is making history today as they perform at the prestigious 78th Annual Midwest Clinic, International Band and Orchestra Conference, in Chicago, IL. This event represents a major achievement in the music world and a proud moment for Minnesota.

To commemorate this remarkable milestone, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has officially proclaimed today as "Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble Day" in Minnesota, honoring the ensemble's extraordinary accomplishments and their contributions to the arts.

In the 78-year history of the Midwest Clinic, only seven Minnesota high schools have been honored with an invitation to perform, with the last Minnesota high school appearance taking place in 1977. Additionally, the Prior Lake High School Percussion Ensemble is the first-ever percussion ensemble from Minnesota to receive this extraordinary honor. The last Minnesota school of any kind to perform at the Midwest Clinic was a middle school in 2001.

Selection for this event is highly competitive and the rigorous process ensures that only the finest ensembles are invited to perform. The ensemble’s participation highlights the district’s commitment to musical excellence and provides an inspirational example for future generations of musicians.

Congratulations to PLHS Band Director Justin Schramm and the PLHS Percussion Ensemble:

Tyler Andring, Jayden Bisbee, Sam Britton, Jacob Brown, Massimo Civitillo, Andrew Coleman, Jimmy Conley, Jonathan Duch, Tegan Featherstone. Nissa Frantz, Henry Gabrio, Nolan Goss, Owen Hammett, Klarissa Harris, Jack Herendeen, Mason Horter, Jenna Lewison, Josie McWilliams, Jack Nicolet, Piper Otzen, Cole Reinsbach, Joe Roemer, Cam Salmela, Donovan Schafroth, Ella Schmit, Berit Schulz, Max Streetar, Kayla Telshaw, Henry Tucker, Noah Wagner and Harry Zheng