District's music programs the best

I've been involved with the music community for over a decade and want to praise the Las Virgenes Unified School District music programs. In addition to the dedicated teachers, I appreciate every student who plays an instrument or sings, every parent who helps boost the program and every enthusiastic audience member. Developing a fine music program is a team effort and it is these groups that are the heart and soul of our programs.

I am most familiar with the schools on the west side of the district, having worked in the music department at Lindero Canyon Middle School for seven years. Students get a tremendous start at LCMS and I can think of no finer high school music program than that of Agoura High School, including county magnet schools. LCMS bands, strings and choral groups consistently place first at festivals. Agoura High School has a distinguished national reputation, including its invitation to and results in the prestigious Essentially Ellington competition at Lincoln Center in New York.

Beyond awards, LCMS/AHS students attain a life-long love of music and dozens of amazingly talented student musicians have become professional musicians after attending renowned music conservatories and college.

This year promises to be another stellar year. Over 700 students will perform in holiday concerts from LCMS and AHS alone, plus hundreds more from the other LVUSD middle and high schools. I hope you will treat yourself by attending at least one of them. You won't be disappointed. Bicky Rippe Westlake Village