11 selected to perform at district concert, 7 play in Conference Honors Band

Cassville High School’s band program earned well-deserved recognition as students participated in the District Honors Band and Conference Honors Band events held Jan. 10 at Joplin High School.

Cassville Band Director Micah Boise announced that 11 Cassville band students were selected to take part in the prestigious performances, traveling to Joplin after school on Friday and returning early Saturday morning for a full day of intensive rehearsals. The event culminated in an evening concert, during which each honors band performed four musical selections showcasing their preparation and talent.

Several Cassville musicians had previously secured positions in the District Honors Band following auditions last fall. These students included TJ Cash on baritone, Sterling Zucca on trumpet, Jacie Hudson on percussion, and Jonah Cupps on oboe. Selection for District Honors Band is based on individual performance and places students among the top musicians in the region.

In addition, seven Cassville students were chosen to perform with the Conference Honors Band, an ensemble composed of students nominated by high school band directors throughout the district. Cassville’s Conference Honors Band members were Wesley Garner on saxophone, Isaac Luney on percussion, Gracie Gray on clarinet, Audrey Mitchell on clarinet, Isabel Serrano on clarinet, Kimberly Hang on flute and Aubrey Conrad on percussion.

“Earning a place in either honors ensemble requires dedication, strong musicianship, and a willingness to commit extra time to rehearsals and performances,” a Cassville band press release said. “The Cassville Band’s strong presence at the district level reflects the continued growth and success of the program, as well as the hard work put in by students throughout the school year. Their performances highlighted not only individual achievement but also the collective excellence of Cassville’s music program.”

Along with the high school honorees, 25 Cassville Middle School band students recently auditioned for the Junior High District Honor Band. Auditions took place at Neosho in January. Earning spots in the band were: Trystan Moore, Sunny Burns, Geneva Aschwanden and Ivan Ortega.