The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

The student-run news site of Lawrence Free State High School

Free Press Online

Free State orchestra students pose after auditioning for State Orchestra on Jan 13.

NEWS: Dozens of Orchestra Students Prepare for State

Morgan Sponholtz, Reporter February 5, 2024

On Saturday, Jan. 13, 21 orchestra members attended state auditions. The results came back soon after; 11 students from Free State were selected to play and one was selected as an alternate on the harp....

After receiving advice from her students, orchestra director Judy Erpelding marks her music. Although the director normally makes the artistic decisions, Erpelding will often consult her students and hear their opinions on what sounds good and what they should try out. “[The students] are the heart of the program, not me,” Erpelding said. “I know they will carry that on and I will miss them. Making great music with them, being able to challenge them, taking their inspiration.”

NEWS: Judy Erpelding Announces Resignation

Lilly Wall May 11, 2023

After serving as the Director of Orchestras program for 11 years at the school, Judy Erpelding has announced her resignation, effective May 26.  With this position being her first teaching job, she...

Teachers adapt music classes for online learning

Teachers adapt music classes for online learning

Nisa Khosh, Reporter November 2, 2020

For choir director Scott Ireland, this semester has been a "never-ending cycle" of Webex, Flip Grid, SmartMusic, emails and planning. Assistant Orchestra director Russell Clark has also been adapting...

Encore 2017

April 20, 2017

1 in 1,000: Jon Fitzgerald, musician

emma machell December 1, 2009

Jon Fitzgerald was born on March 21, 1994. He is the second of three children. Despite being the middle child he does not fade into the background. He makes sure that the world knows who he is. Or at least,...

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