Lake Oconee Academy proudly celebrates a group of exceptional middle and high school musicians who were selected to perform in the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) District Honor Band, one of the region’s most competitive and respected musical honors.
These students earned their place through a rigorous audition process held in December, competing against over 600 instrumentalists from schools across the district. Selection for the District Honor Band represents a significant musical accomplishment and reflects both individual dedication and the strength of Lake Oconee Academy’s band program.
Students representing LOA included:
High School
Gracie Vandiver (12th Grade) - Flute
Marlee Lyon (11th Grade) - Flute
Kyler Fryer (10th Grade) - Trumpet
Middle School
Olivia Bellefuille (8th Grade) - Clarinet
Brees Burgess (8th Grade) - Clarinet
Sima Bahr (8th Grade) - Flute
Brianna Spurlin (7th Grade) - Flute
Lilah Austin-Bowen (6th Grade) - Flute
The selected musicians rehearsed and performed alongside top student performers from across the region during the District Honor Band event held Thursday, February 5, at Augusta State University, culminating in a public concert showcasing their talent and hard work.
LOA Band Director Courtney Pilgrim praised the students’ achievement and commitment to excellence. “These students worked incredibly hard to prepare for auditions and represented Lake Oconee Academy with professionalism, musicianship and pride,” said Pilgrim. “Being selected from such a large and talented pool of musicians is an outstanding accomplishment, and we are so proud of each of them.”
Participation in the GMEA District Honor Band provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with distinguished conductors, perform advanced repertoire, and grow as musicians alongside peers who share their passion for music.
Lake Oconee Academy congratulates these talented students on this remarkable honor and looks forward to their continued success both on and off the stage.