Music Masters, hail to thee!

On Nov. 1, Tri-M, a program sponsored by the National Association for Music Education, will induct new members into the National Music Honor Society in conjunction with the fall choral concert.

“It’s important to honor our music students that excel in the area,” choral director Mary Theresa Reed says. “When organizations see that a student participates in Tri-M, they stand out.”

NAfME, the world’s largest arts education association, has promoted accessible music education for all students since 1907. Tri-M’s primary focus is to create leaders for music advocacy in the form of community service. With nearly 2,000 chapters in the U.S. and more than 75,000 students, 750,000 hours are given back to the community through service projects and public performances each year.

“Tri-M is a great community to be apart of, “ says senior Abi Otwell. “I’ve met some of my best friends through the program.”

Students who want to become involved in the program must follow a set of criteria to be considered. Members of Tri-M must be committed which includes music participation, academic achievement, leadership, and character. Members must also be selected by a chapter advisee, music faculty and student officers.

“I was invited to Tri-M due to my involvement in band, orchestra, and choir,” says drum major Maple Conn. “We have many service performances during the year including the winter concert which showcases the most musical art.”

Involvement in music classes is also necessary. Members must participate in one music class for at least one semester while maintaining a 3.0 GPA in said class to be eligible for the program. Students must also have a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all core classes.

The program is demanding, but it does not come without reward. According to the College Board, students who participated in music education scored 23 points above average in math and 31 points above average in both reading and writing on the SAT. The Tri-M program combines this academic benefit with community service to enhance the skill set of students.

“Music helps me academically as it gives me a chance, not just to unwind, but to actively use my tension to produce something beautiful,” says Conn. “It’s a beautiful thing when a piece of art can connect so wholly with your mind, spirit and body.”

The Tri-M induction, which will serve as the fall choral concert, will take place on Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.