Over the winter, juniors and seniors apart of the Fine Arts department at Bellefonte High received shocking news: Bellefonte High was opening up a Tri-M Music Honors Society.
But what is Tri-M? Tri-M, the abbreviation for Modern Music Masters, is a part of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). According to their website, Tri-M “ recognizes students that have gone above and beyond both academically and musically,” while also “providing students leadership opportunities to make a difference in their community through music-based service projects.”
“Tri-M is very active in other school districts across central Pennsylvania so it seemed like a no-brainer to start a chapter here as well. The music students here at Bellefonte are exceptional and deserve the opportunity to be honored for their hard work and achievements as well,” Band director and Chapter leader, Mr. Jeremiah Dobo said.
Despite Bellefonte’s chapter forming rather recently, it already has accepted many fine arts students. Junior Emma Harter is one of these students.
“I’m very excited for it to open because it will be good for talented students to have higher recognition in the community. I hope that it will enable its members to be more involved and help new attendees,” she said.
The club’s recent formation has also not prevented the election of officers. Senior Samantha Nedrow was nominated, and later elected, as the chapter’s vice-president.
“As a senior I hope that this chapter allows future music students to grow and prosper within a supportive, like-minded community,” Sam said, “additionally I hope that our incredible fine arts staff are able to focus more on their students while Tri-M volunteers take care of as many of the mundane but necessary tasks as we can.”
Other officers include Seniors Sadie Stodart as the president, Raven Harter as historian, Elizabeth Stack as treasure, and Sophie Harper as secretary.
“I am super excited for the opening of the Tri-M chapter at Bellefonte. As seniors, we may not be able to do much with the foundation, but I am excited for the opportunities it will open for future students. It’s cool to be a part of it, even if it’s just getting started,” Raven said.
Other seniors share her excitement.
“I’m quite excited…I hope that in the future, the chapter inspires more people to pick up music and kids to continue learning. I believe that it can help foster an even stronger community here at Bellefonte,” Elizabeth said.
The decision to open the Tri-M Chapter for Bellefonte High was rejoiced by many fine arts students, and is a great opportunity for them to further music education.
