Top marks for Womens Ensemble

by Art Adair
Contributing writer
The Monticello High School Women’s Ensemble recently completed their performance season at the region solo and ensemble competition on March 26, where they received a 1 rating. That qualified them for the state tournament at Provo High School.
Solo and Ensemble competitions are student-led with no instructor. Alexis Bailey and Kyleigh Adair spearheaded the team this year. Ensembles are established through students collaborating with other students and creating their ensembles in either vocal or instrumental.
They are also responsible for picking their song, practicing, and competing.
The ensemble consisted of Marah Long, Alexis Bailey, Alli Young, Kyleigh Adair, Coral Delorenzis, Madison Adair, Josie Mack, Maron Freestone, and Dani Black.
Unlike other UHSAA events, musical performances are statewide in which teams or individuals compete against a set standard. There are no head-to-head competitions or state trophies. Each qualified team or individual is competing against the rating system and for personal pride. 
The UHSAA sanctioned events are rated by the following standards:
Rating I : Superior —A first-rate performance for the event and the class of participants being judged. To receive a superior rating, a performance must meet the highest expectations in every category of adjudication.
Rating II : Excellent —a commendable performance showing a high standard of musical accomplishment but lacking in one or more of the characteristics of a superior rating. 
Rating III : Good —an average performance lacking in several characteristics of a superior rating.
Rating IV : Fair —a below average performance.
Rating V : Poor —a performance lacking sufficient preparation and exhibiting major deficiencies. 
At the conclusion of the State competition, the MHS Women’s Ensemble received a 1 rating or Superior for their performance of the song “Fly Away Home” by Pinkzebra. No trophies or fire truck rides are given. So if you see one of these young women, tell them congratulations on a superior season.