Celebrating young talent: Tri-M Music Honor Society recognizes students’ success at induction ceremony

April 18, 2024

By Marez Melad
Staff Writer

The LHS chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society welcomed seven new members at its induction ceremony and annual recital in the auditorium on March 27. At the event, students in the high school’s music program performed 17 instrumental and vocal pieces.

Tri-M, which stands for Modern Music Masters, came to the high school last year. It is open to juniors and seniors who have demonstrated character, leadership and service in their activities at LHS. Additionally, they must be enrolled in Option II Honors Band 1, 2, 3 or 4 or be part of the chorale rendering no fewer than three musical services to an organization outside of LHS without the expectation of financial compensation. 

Eligible students must have earned a minimum of an A average in all their music courses and a minimum of a B average in all other subjects the previous school year. To stay in Tri-M, students must remain involved in the Music Department, participate in its concerts and recitals and maintain their academic averages. There are a total of 13 LHS students in Tri-M.

Choir director Ms. Wise, who co-advises Tri-M with band director Mr. Chwalyk, said the honor society is meant to encourage music appreciation, enhance the reputation of the school, foster a continued interest and desire for excellence in music performance and share music within the community.

“LHS adopted the Tri-M [Music] Honor Society to recognize the fantastic and high-achieving musicians in our district and give them the opportunity for recognition on a national level,” Wise said.

She said Tri-M also aims to acknowledge students in the field of music because singers and musicians rarely get acclaim unless they become famous.

“Tri-M is a good way for young people with a passion for music to be put on a pedestal and have their peers see the awesome [work] they are doing.”

“Students who work so hard in this discipline should be known,” Wise said. “It is an honor to be recognized as a student who excels in both academics and high music achievement.”

Junior Angelina Brennen, who was one of this year’s inductees, said she applied to Tri-M because of her passion for music and performance.

“I love singing and playing my instruments, [so] it was a no-brainer [to apply] when Ms. Wise and Mr. Chwalyk announced that we would be starting this,” Brennen said.

Brennen, who is part of the band, chorale and jazz band, said Tri-M is a way for outstanding student musicians to be recognized for their hard work and talent.

“With sports, you have medals and awards that range from county to state and even nation, and the same goes for academics with [the National Honor Society],” Brennen said. “Tri-M is a good way for young people with a passion for music to be put on a pedestal and have their peers see the awesome [work] they are doing.”

Junior Summer Caffrey, who is in the band, chorale and jazz band, was also inducted into Tri-M last month. 

“I decided to apply to Tri-M because I love music, and I plan on pursuing a career in music,” Caffrey said. “Since it was announced that Tri-M was coming to LHS, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

Caffrey said she believes she is a good fit for Tri-M because the students in the honor society are all united in their appreciation for music.

“[Tri-M’s] mission is to recognize dedicated student musicians and highlight the importance of music, music education and leadership,” Caffrey said.

Junior band and jazz band member Chelsea Cardo, who was also one of the inductees, said there are several reasons she applied to join Tri-M.

“I wanted to be part of a group of musicians that matched my same level of passion and dedication to music,” Cardo said. “Being a member of Tri-M also looks good for college applications [because it] will show my commitment.”

Cardo said she advises students looking to join Tri-M to demonstrate an interest in music by working to improve their skills and help others do the same.

“I felt very honored to be accepted into Tri-M, and I’m grateful for this opportunity,” said Cardo.