Several students have earned recognition at the recent All-State Band auditions, demonstrating their dedication and musical talent. The auditions, known for their rigorous standards, challenge students to perform prepared pieces and sight-read music, highlighting their technical skills and musicality.
Junior Logan Frazier was one of many students to succeed at the All-State band competition.
“I feel pumped and excited to advance, and I did very well,” he said.
Sophomore Gabe Chisum, who achieved an impressive third place overall, reflected on his performance.
“I think I did well considering I got 3rd overall,” Chisum said. “I think I did the best I could.”
For some, the journey to All-State began months ago. Senior Calie Brones explained her preparation process.
“I first looked at it in August, but didnt focus on it until after marching season,” she said.
Junior Wayne Picklesimer encouraged other students to participate in the auditions, regardless of their perceived chances.
“Do it, there’s only upsides in doing so, even if you don’t care for a placement or advancement,” he said.
Makenzie Johnson, another junior who found success at the auditions, shared her strategy for managing nerves.
“Remaining calm and trying to not be so nervous helps me,” she said.
While the auditions mark a significant achievement, the preparation for the All-State concert is already underway. Senior Kristian Gordon, looking ahead to the upcoming performance, said he is not quite ready, but when the group gets together and they practice as a band, they will be ready.
Sophomore Gage Frazier was confident about the scale part of his audition.
“I feel great about it, but more practice can make them over the top,” he said.
Students who made the Wind Ensemble group are: Claire Jowell, Makenzie Johnson, Logan Frazier, Kendall Gordon, Gabe Chisum, Wayne Picklesimer, Elias Jureidini, Kristian Gordon, Landen Ward, Bay Reynolds, Nathan Sherwin, Caleb Hamilton, and Tristan Royer.
Students who made the Symphonic band group are: Carley Portie, Kiari Walsten, Ashley Mai, Daphne Rabago, Isabella Ibarra, Brooklyn Bellon, Laken Hardy, Addison Ezernack, Kaymbree Coleman, Sarah Park, Jannath Bhojani, Calie Brones, Franklin Ortiz, Rylee Lofton, Odes Gordon, Ronnie Rosen, Preston Ewing, Henry Welch, Macalynne Steele, Ryan Garcia, Lance Scott, Gage Frazier, Haden Causey, and AJ Phillips.
Over the past weekend, a few students from the LCM band went to TMEA. Wayne Picklesimer, Grant Loupe, and Logan Frazier made the top band and Nathan Sherwin, Kristian Gordon, Landen Ward, and Henry Welch made the second band.
