Jr/Sr High ACEA Fine Arts State Competition 2011

This is Jorden’s second year in the Jr/Sr High Competition. While the competition is stiff in Elementary, it’s nothing like it is in Jr and Sr. High.
Mom and I got to the church early enough to hear the guy before Jorden perform. They had to perform in the auditorium. (sanctuary) After hearing the first guy perform, I have to admit I was very scared for Jorden. This kid was awesome. I have no idea what he played, but to me with my untrained ear, he played it beautifully. This was our first time to hear the competition…normally we only get to hear our school’s students play. It is nerve wracking to hear what your child is up against. We already knew going in that there were enough kids in this category (classical piano solo) that they would have to have a “run-off”. There were 14 kids (boy and girls) in all. Only 6 would be picked on Thursday, then on Friday they would each play their song again and the top three would be the winners.
 
Jorden, waiting to play his piece

Jorden scored a 96 out of 100 on Thursday and made the “run-off” .

Jorden, talking to the judges before he played

Playing “Fur Elise” by Beethoven

He and Alissa Blankenship also played a “sacred duet”-He Lives.



Alissa and Jorden introducing their song

Playing their piece for competition

Jorden and Alissa received 1st Place with a Superior rating for their piece

Alissa also played a classical duet with Kali Kennedy. They received 2nd place with a Excellent rating for their piece

Also competing was Andrew Blankenship and Shelby Sewell (2nd place for their Classical Duet) and Skyler White (Humorous Interpretation)

Jorden blew us all away! He received 1st place with a Superior Rating (98 out of 100) for his classical piano solo. 
So proud of you Jorden!! You are awesome and God has given you a wonderful talent. Our dream for you is to ALWAYS use it for His glory and honor!