Musicians impress at all-county fest

This was an amazing weekend. Being a novice to the annual All-County Music Festival, I must take a moment and not only thank those who asked me to help out, but those who share their gifts.

When I arrived at Amherst Middle School this snowy Friday afternoon and settled into my post, I had little idea of the treat that was in store. I watched as approximately 700 seventh-, eighth-, and ninth-graders tumbled in from schools all over Erie County. They met, most for the first time, around 4:15 p.m. for the beginning of many hours of practice in anticipation of their Saturday performance. Young adults, who could be anywhere on this Friday and Saturday, were joined by their love of music, talent and dedication to their craft. Little did I know.

A short time later, as they picked up their instruments and opened their mouths to sing, I was rendered speechless, not an easy task for anyone who knows me. The hallways swelled with the most beautiful sound of the orchestras, bands and choruses, filling my ears, bringing tears to my eyes.

Bravo to all of them, the teachers who polish this talent, the parents who support and encourage them and the students who could have been anywhere else this weekend, but chose to share their gifts. Well done.
Judith Masters
Snyder