There is no better measure of success than to be recognized among the best in a given area of endeavor.
For a high school musician, being named to the All-State High School Band by the Michigan Schools Bands and Orchestra Association is regarded as the highest of honors.
Such an honor was recently bestowed on Lake Orion High School senior Michelle Lewandowski, who was selected by the MSBOA to perform in Grand Rapids with more than 100 other top musicians from around the state.
The 18-year-old clarinetist was invited to the Amway Grand Hotel Jan. 24-27 for a series of rehearsals, followed by a special performance at the DeVos Center for the Performing Arts.
‘It’s really fun and feels good to be around that kind of talent and to see what can be accomplished in just two days of rehearsal with such good players,? she said of the experience.
Michelle was required to audition before a panel of MSBOA judges before qualifying for inclusion in the All-State band. It’s the second consecutive year she has been invited to join the band.
LOHS band director Michael Steele said Michelle has accomplished nearly everything one can as a musician in high school.
‘Michelle has a great attitude, she loves to play her instrument and loves to perform — and all of that shows,? said Steele. ‘We have a great many excellent students at this school, and I’m very happy for and proud of Michelle for what she has done.
‘It’s always nice to see the kids being rewarded for their hard work,? he said. ‘I sometimes have people congratulate me, but it’s the students who do the work. And that’s what earned it for Michelle.?
For her part, Michelle acknowledged the efforts of her teachers, both Steele and private instructor Shelley Roland.
‘I love Mr. Steele and he’s a great inspiration,? she said. ‘He pushes us to do our best and he’s always there for us.
‘Shelley has helped me with everything,? she added. ‘She’s been the biggest influence on my clarinet playing. She’s like a friend to me.?
Upon graduating, Michelle plans to attend Western Michigan University in the fall, with the possibility of someday transferring to Michigan State.
Michelle is the daughter of Brian and Cheryl Lewandowski. Besides playing in the band and keeping up with her studies, Michelle works at the Lake Orion McDonald’s restaurant.