Our story

The Boardman High School Orchestra was started in 1954 under the direction of Richard S. Bame. The orchestra then boasted a string section of eight. In the first year, which was spent mostly in practice and organization, the orchestra was able to appear in a joint concert with the band and played for commencement exercises. The following summer the orchestra members had the privilege of going with the band to Camp Lambec on Lake Erie for a week of good food, swimming, recreation, and practice, practice, practice!

The second-year the string section was up to sixteen and began to have that "orchestra" sound. The orchestra appeared in two concerts and again for commencement exercises. For the first time in the history of the school, the orchestra entered the O.M.E.A. district contest at Leavittsburg and received Superior ratings from three judges and an Excellent in sight-reading. This rating enabled the group to enter state finals in Columbus at The Ohio State University. With competition becoming keener, they still came through with Superior ratings from three judges and an Excellent in sight-reading. The orchestra brought home the first bronze plaque to hang in the instrumental music room. Needless to say, being the only orchestra in its class to get a Superior rating in the state finals and only in the second year as an organization, the members were quite proud.

Since then, under the direction of Carol S. Clark, Frank Dispenza, and now Michele Prokop the Boardman Orchestra has continued its tradition of success. Symphony Orchestra still holds the longest streak of consecutive state superior ratings (1974-2018) at 44 years. Chamber orchestra still has an unbroken streak dating back to the '80s. In addition, the orchestra has earned numerous grand champion awards at national competitions and multiple gold and silver medals at international competitions. In 2008 the program grew with the addition of Boardman’s rock orchestra, Project Mayhem. This group plays to sold-out crowds each spring and brings a new twist to our traditional program.

By being part of the Boardman Orchestra, you are a member of a group with a rich history of Pride, Tradition, and Excellence. Remember to represent yourself, your family, your community, and your orchestra in a way that continues to uphold those ideals.