From January 25-27, 2024, a few select students from our Jesuit/Ursuline Band traveled to Richardson in attendance of the Texas All State Band. But first, let’s explore what does all state even mean.

What is All State?

The Texas All State Band is a distinguished ensemble comprised of the most accomplished high school musicians from across the state. Selected through a rigorous audition process, these musicians showcase not only exceptional musical proficiency but also a deep commitment to their craft.

“One experience you cannot get at whatever school band you’re at which you can get at All State Band is just the professionalism within that setting. Everyone has worked to be there and everyone wants to be there.” – Ethan Tavares ’24

How to Audition for All State

Participation in the All-State Band begins with auditions, which often take place months in advance to the actual performance. These auditions are highly competitive, requiring candidates to demonstrate mastery of their instrument through prescribed musical excerpts, scales, and sight-reading. Judges, often esteemed music educators or professional musicians, meticulously evaluate each performance, selecting only the most exceptional musicians to join the ensemble.

“Just auditioning can make you a better player… you must be better than the majority of people in the state.” -Ethan Tavares 24′

Participants ranged across grade levels as following:

Freshmen – Gibson Goodno

Sophomores – Allen Zhang, Abram Hunt, Brandon Bang

Seniors – James Corrigan, Patrick Murphy, Ethan Tavares

Ursuline Students – Rachel Ok, Ivy Hoang, Celeste Theriot, Hannah Fonteneau

Participants played a multitude of classical pieces such as “Hounds of Spring” by Alfred Reed, “La Mesquita de Cordoba” by Julie Giroux, and many more. After numerous hours of practice and fine tuning, the instrumentalists worked together to play these pieces with immaculate precision and scale.

All State not only inspires a desire for students to improve as musicians; additionally, events like these help students form bonds with their peers rooted in their love for music by playing unforgettable songs together.

“Band helps me have a bigger appreciation of music through the friends I’ve made and experiences I’ve had through band” -David Amador 26′

Stay tuned to The Roundup for more news about the Jesuit/Ursuline Band!