Congratulations to the Marching Rams of Amsterdam High School. These talented musicians and performers returned this spring from their very successful trip and competition in Virginia with a busload of awards.

The awards/honors came at the Virginia International Music Festival held April 20-23 as part of the Norfolk NATO Festival, Virginia Arts Festival and 70th annual Parade of Nations. The Parade of Nations is the longest continuously running parade in Hampton Roads and the only parade in the United States honoring NATO. It included 70 parade units with local and visiting high school bands, U.S. and international military bands, and colorful floats representing the NATO member nations. Here is what they won:

Amsterdam Marching Rams

• Silver Rating under the direction of Ann Wilary, Cody Chamberlin, Christina DeLuca, Kristina Savoie, and Troy Fitchette

Concert Band (Category 1)

• First Place – Silver Rating under the direction of Cody Chamberlin

Advanced Concert Band (Category 2)

• First Place – Gold Rating under the direction of Ann Wilary

Jazz Ensemble

• First Place – Silver Rating under the direction of Cody Chamberlin

Jazz Ensemble Solo Award

• Honesty Rios for her solo in “Children of Sanchez”