[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 69 (Thursday, May 16, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E830]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TRIBUTE TO THE HERNDON MIDDLE SCHOOL SYMPHONIC BAND

                                 ______


                          HON. THOMAS M. DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 16, 1996

  Mr. DAVIS. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and 
pay tribute to the Herndon Middle School Symphonic Band, which will 
receive one of the most prestigious international awards for junior 
high and intermediate school bands. On May 19, 1996, the Herndon Middle 
School Symphonic Band will receive the John Philip Sousa Foundation's 
Sudler Silver Cup, an honor which recognizes junior high and 
intermediate school bands that have demonstrated the highest standards 
of excellence in all respects of their activities. Under the direction 
of a very dedicated and talented music director, Mrs. Noreen Linnemann, 
it is one of only two bands from the entire United States and Canada to 
receive this coveted award this year.
  Each year, the John Philip Sousa Foundation awards the Sudler Silver 
Cup after conducting a rigorous selection process undertaken by a 
committee made up of nationally-known band conductors. The selection 
committee chooses award recipients based on the following criteria: 
First, the band's music director has been incumbent in his or her 
position for at least 7 consecutive years; second, the band has 
maintained a high standard of excellence in the concert area for 
several years; third, the band has received a superior rating at State, 
regional, or national levels of competition; fourth, the band has 
performed at significant meetings at State, regional, and national 
levels; fifth, a number of students in the band have participated in 
district and all-State honor bands or similar groups. There is no limit 
on the number of bands which can receive the Sudler Silver Cup each 
year. So indeed, not only is it a remarkable accomplishment that the 
Herndon Middle School Symphonic Band earned this honor, it is equally 
commendable that it is one of only two bands worthy of receiving the 
award in 1996.
   Mr. Speaker, I know my colleagues will join me in applauding the 
hard work and commitment of Mrs. Linnemann and this talented group of 
young musicians. I congratulate them on receiving this distinguished 
award and for making their parents, neighbors, and community proud of 
this exceptional achievement.

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