Milbank High School Music Department Presents Awards

The Milbank High School band and choirs held an awards presentation ceremony on May 10. Hattie Muellenbach was the 2021- 2022 recipient of the John Phillip Sousa Award. The award, which originated in 1954, is the most prestigious award given to high school band students who demonstrate musicianship, leadership, dependability, and loyalty. 

Hailey Hupke and Isaac Sousa each received a National School Choral Award. The award honors a female and male singer from the senior class who have contributed the most to the school vocal program with their singing ability and enthusiasm for choral performance.

Jack Sandvig received the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award, which is presented to a student whose participation in jazz band continues Mr. Armstrong’s desire for the true jazz sound.  

Karson Weber received the Justin Maass Memorial Award. The award recognizes a MHS chorus member who demonstrates outstanding effort and motivating enthusiasm for choral singing along with strong musicianship.

The Arion Award, the oldest and most prestigious national award for outstanding achievement by high school musicians was given to William Karels. Selection is based on the individual’s contribution to the music department, scholastic standing in band and choir, personal and professional qualities, and performing abilities and musicianship qualities.

Two Director’s Award were presented to individuals who assist the band and choir directors and students with the overall program.  I. Sousa earned the band student award, and Maiah Brown was chosen as the recipient from the choir.  Laney Forrette, Hope Karels, W. Karels, H. Muellenbach, Joe Schulte, and Rachel Schulte were recognized for participating in the 2022 South Dakota All-State Band in Brookings.J. Schulte and R. Schulte were also recognized for their selection to  the 2021 South Dakota All-State Orchestra in Rapid City

The Spirit of Marching Award, as voted on by the band members’ classmates were presented to: Ty Kettwig and Ella Sandvig – Top Freshmen; Olivia Wendland – Top Sophomore; LuisBerrones – Top Junior; and Savannah Stengel – Top Senior.

Outstanding choir members, as voted on by their peers, included: E. Sandvig – Outstanding Freshman; Shaylee Schuchard – Outstanding Sophomore; and Jacob Shelstad – Outstanding Junior. Nick Fonder, Max Lightfield, Aiden Ludvigson, Ellie Neugebauer, R. Schulte, J. Shelstad were also recognized for being chosen as members of the 48th Annual South Dakota Honor Choir. The event will take place from July 31- August 5 on the campus of USD.

Photo–Front Row:  Savannah Stengel, Hattie Muellenbach, Hailey Hupke, Maiah Brown, Olivia Wendland, Gemma Street, Shaylee Schuchard, Ella Sandvig
Second Row:  Ty Kettwig, Luis Berrones, Jacob Shelstad, Isaac Sousa, William Karels, Jack Sandvignot pictured:  Karson Weber