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Burleson ISD honors Kerr Middle, Centennial students for Midwest Clinic and All-State placements
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Summary
At its Feb. 9 meeting Burleson ISD recognized Kerr Middle School’s honors band for performing at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago and several students who earned spots in Texas All-State ensembles, including Dolly Pemberton, Brennan Miller and Ferris/Farris Amido.
The Burleson Independent School District Board of Trustees used its Feb. 9 meeting to recognize student musicians for regional, state and international accomplishments.
Catherine Klein, band director at Kerr Middle School, said the Kerr Middle School honors band performed at the Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago on Dec. 19, an invitation-only event she described as "widely regarded as one of the most prestigious music education conferences in the world." Klein said selection involves a highly competitive application and recording process and praised students and supporting teachers for months of preparation.
The board and audience applauded students who represented Kerr Middle and Burleson ISD on an international stage. Klein noted that members of the 2024–25 Kerr honors band took part in the recording process that supported the ensemble’s invitation.
The board also recognized two students who earned placements in the Texas Music Educators Association All-State ensembles. Presenters said less than 3% of auditioning band students statewide earn spots; Dolly Pemberton, a junior flute player, earned seventh chair and will rehearse and perform at the San Antonio convention. Brennan Miller was recognized for earning a fourth-chair placement in percussion, a feat presenters described as particularly demanding because percussionists perform multiple etudes across several instruments.
Nick Chabot, choir director at Centennial, recognized Ferris Amido (transcript also spells the name 'Farris') for earning a place in the TMEA All-State Tenor Bass Choir. Chabot said the choir selection process started in September and was narrowed over four rounds; he noted Amido ranked among the top performers in the region and across North Texas.
Board members and parents congratulated the students during the meeting.
