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Omaha Public Schools Celebrates the 75th Annual All-City Music Festival Feb. 1 & 2. Image property of OPS

Omaha Public Schools Celebrates the 75th Annual All-City Music Festival Feb. 1 & 2. Image property of OPS

By Gabriel Escalera

OPS’ All-City Music Festival Celebrates 75 Years

January 28th, 2025

Omaha has a proud tradition of producing exceptional talent, particularly in the arts. Many of the city’s accomplished musicians and singers trace their roots to the Omaha Public Schools music programs.

This year, the All-City Music Festival celebrates its 75th anniversary, a milestone that highlights the city’s enduring commitment to nurturing musical talent.

Sara Cowan, the choir director at Central High School, has been teaching there for 13 years and was once a member of the choir as a student. This year is especially significant to her, as it marks the first time Omaha Public Schools has commissioned three original pieces for the festival, including one for the choral ensemble.

Composer and conductor Dr. Marques L.A. Garrett said he was thrilled to collaborate with Omaha Public Schools on one of the nation’s longest-running K-12 music festivals.

The festival brings together select students from across the district to form a large ensemble. High school students join through auditions, while middle and elementary students are chosen by teacher recommendation.

The two-day event will feature instrumental performances on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m., and choir performances on Sunday, Feb. 2, at 2 p.m. Both events will take place at the Holland Performing Arts Center.

For more information, visit OPS.org.