GHS Choir, Band and Orchestra Earn Sweepstakes at UIL Competition

In April of 2022, all four choirs, three orchestras, and three bands from Georgetown High School (GHS) earned Sweepstakes at the UIL Region 26 Concert and Sightreading Evaluation.

Students arrive at the competition and perform three prepared pieces for the concert portion. For the sightreading evaluation, students have up to 10 minutes to learn a brand new piece and perform it for three judges. 

If two out of the three judges give the performers a 1, which is the superior rating, then a 1 is earned for that portion of the event. If the performers receive a 1 for both the concert portion and sightreading evaluation, they earn a sweepstakes. 

"We typically start preparing for UIL at the start of the semester, and it is a lot of work," GHS band director Justin Smith said. "In Texas, UIL standards are very high, so to receive a 1 from judges is a wonderful accomplishment."

It is the first time since 2009 that a GHS sub non-varsity band has earned a sweepstakes. 

This achievement is even more impressive when you think about how much extra work fine arts students put in throughout the semester. On top of UIL preparation, there are musical performances and other events year-round that they have to prepare for. 

"The kids have to put in a lot of extra time outside of school," Smith said. "As a fine arts department, we support each other through it all. Each part of the music department is proud of the other." 

"We have great fine arts in Georgetown, and a lot of it comes from the support we get from parents and the community," Smith said. "And we can't forget about the support from administration. We are so grateful."

Congratulations to these gifted students for such a rare and impressive accomplishment!