The Grove Groove Marimba Ensemble, a talented group of young musicians from the Marysville School District, has been selected to perform at the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Northwest Division Conference. Their performance is scheduled for Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:45 AM, marking a significant milestone for the district.
This honor places the Grove Groove Marimba Ensemble among an elite group of performers. They are only the second school group from the Marysville School District to be invited to an All-State or All-Northwest conference in the past 25 years. The last group to achieve this distinction was the 10th Street School Band, which performed at the 2019 conference in Bellevue.
“This is an incredible opportunity to showcase the exceptional talent and hard work of our students and to shine a spotlight on the positive achievements emerging from Marysville,” said Erik Eliason, Grove Groove Ensemble Director and the school’s music specialist. “We are thrilled to share our music on such a prestigious platform,” he added.
About the Grove Groove Marimba Ensemble
The Grove Groove Marimba Ensemble consists of 30 dedicated students from 5th to 7th grade. The group’s unique structure mirrors the intergenerational traditions of the Shona Tribes in Zimbabwe. Advanced middle school musicians play alongside beginners, fostering a supportive learning environment where experienced students mentor newcomers. This innovative approach ensures every student plays at their own pace and ability level while contributing to the ensemble’s dynamic performances.
The ensemble’s invitation to perform at the NAfME Northwest Division Conference is a testament to the district’s commitment to music education and the arts. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate the exceptional achievements of Marysville students and generate positive recognition for the community. The Ensemble’s performance promises to captivate audiences with its vibrant rhythms and collaborative spirit.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, February 15, 2024
Time: 9:30 – 10:45 AM
Location: Spokane Convention Center, Spokane, Washington
For more information about the Grove Groove Marimba Ensemble or their upcoming performance, please contact Erik Eliason, Grove Groove Director/Grove Elementary Music Specialist, erik_eliason@msd26.org
About NAfME
The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) is among the world’s largest arts education organizations. The Northwest Division Conference brings together educators, students, and performers to celebrate the power of music and inspire excellence in music education.