Finding the right rhythm
Two students make All-State Jazz Ensemble
November 28, 2016
Junior Nathan Brooks and senior Aaron Stone hit all the right notes heading into Thanksgiving break by being accepted into the All-State Jazz Ensemble II, one of the highest in-school achievements for a high school musician and will perform at the annual TMEA Convention in San Antonio in February.
“When I heard the news I was beyond excited,” Brooks said. “I could hardly contain myself.”
Many of the students auditioning for one of two of these all-state jazz ensembles have been practicing their music since it was released last May. One was required to advance past the all-region, pre-area, and area rounds before being considered for a spot in an all-state ensemble.
“I’ve put in hundreds and hundreds of hours of improv, long tones, transcribing, listening, etude practice, and other things over the past few months and years to reach this milestone,” Brooks said. “I’m glad it more than paid off.”