Mark of Excellence graphic

Allen ISD Fine Arts Students and their directors were recently honored with national recognition for outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school bands, choirs, and orchestras. 

The Foundation of Music Education (TFME) awarded the Mark of Excellence to: 

 National Winners (Varsity Division): 

  • Allen HS Chamber Orchestra – David DeVoto 

  • Ereckson MS Chamber Orchestra – Joanna DeVoto 

Commended Winners: 

  • Allen HS Wind Ensemble – Dr. Philip Obado 

  • Allen HS Symphony Orchestra – David DeVoto, Philip Obado, Matt Cross 

  • Curtis MS Symphony Orchestra – Amanda Su, Clint Schaefer 

  • Ereckson MS Symphony Orchestra – Joanna DeVoto, DJ Vaccarezza, Rachel Boone 

Citations of Excellence were awarded to: 

National Winners (Junior Varsity Division): 

  • Allen HS Symphonic Band – Alexander Baczewski 

  • Lowery Freshman Center Wind Ensemble – Joshua Blankenship 

  • Lowery Freshman Center Chamber Orchestra – Charles Robinson 

  • Ereckson MS Sinfonia I Orchestra – Rachel Boone

Both competitions recognize outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school bands, choirs, and orchestras at the Varsity and Junior Varsity levels. Nationally recognized teachers and conductors adjudicate entries. The top 25 percent of entries are recognized as National Winners, with the second 25 percent named Commended Winners.