J.P. Taravella High Symphonic Band Strikes a High Note with Superior Rating at District Assessment

by David Volz March 27, 2026

by David Volz March 27, 2026 2 minutes read

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J.P. Taravella Symphonic Band {Shamar Drumond}

Kemayah Lewis, a member of the J.P. Taravella High School band program, has a passion for music and practicing with her friends.

A flute player and woodwind lieutenant, she is part of the Symphonic Band that earned straight superiors at the music performance assessment at Dillard High School on March 5.

Reflecting on the accomplishment, Lewis said, “We worked hard in rehearsal during school hours and after school. We were so happy when we found out we had received our superior rating.”

Alyssa Hrenick, a trumpet player and brass lieutenant, shared similar enthusiasm. “It felt good because we put in so much work. I love playing music and being a part of the band,” she said.

Band director Shamar Drumond said this is the highest rating the symphonic band has earned in recent years.

“Everyone in the band put in long hours of rehearsal, and I made sure the students put in the work. I am very proud of everyone in the band, and I believe we will continue to improve,” said Drumond.

Seniors in the band were glad to have such a success before graduating. Matis Basha, a trombone player and drum major in the marching band, will minor in music at the University of South Florida next year. “I felt good about our high rating and have enjoyed being a section leader in the brass section,” he said.

Next, the band will present its spring performance on April 30 at 7 p.m. at the Taravella auditorium, located at 10600 Riverside Drive. Meanwhile, marching band students are preparing for the fall season, during which they will perform at football games, competitions, and community events.

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Author Profile

David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.