Mark Perez, who has previously brought students to Class D All-State, noted that while structural differences exist between the two classifications, the level of competition remains equally high, “The main difference was that Class D All-State has a jazz band and Class C All-State does a junior high band, Perez said. “I believe that both are highly competitive.”
Preparation for All-State begins months in advance, with students committing to practice schedules outside of regular class time. Auditions take place in January, requiring dedication and discipline from those hoping to earn a spot. “Students usually find out if they are placed in an honor band a couple of weeks after auditions are due,” Perez explained.
This year’s event held special significance, as it marked the 40th anniversary of the Class C All-State Band. To commemorate the milestone, organizers commissioned composer Larry MacTaggart to create an original work for the Wind Ensemble.
The piece, titled, “Never Forget,” carried deep historical and personal meaning. Inspired by World War II and the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, as well as the composer’s connection to his wife’s uncle - a prisoner of war in Germany - the composition offered students a powerful musical experience.
Adding to the uniqueness of the event, MacTaggart attended rehearsals and worked directly with the ensemble. “The composer came to work with the conductor and the musicians on how to perform the piece with his vision in mind,” Perez said. “To be able to do a world premiere of a piece is an experience that many musicians do not get to have, so it was really unique for my students to be a part of it.”
Performing a piece written specifically for the honor band gave students a rare glimpse into the creative process behind music composition. According to Perez, the experience allowed students to better understand the dedication and thought that goes into crafting a musical work.
Beyond the performance itself, the impact of the All-State experience extends into students’ personal and musical growth. “I think that students get to experience performing music at a high level with other great musicians throughout the state,” Perez said. “It pushes them to be better musicians and leaders for themselves, but also our own band at EMF.”
With competing at Class C All-State, EMF’s band program has taken an important step forward, setting the stage for continued growth and excellence for years to come.
Preparation for All-State begins months in advance, with students committing to practice schedules outside of regular class time. Auditions take place in January, requiring dedication and discipline from those hoping to earn a spot. “Students usually find out if they are placed in an honor band a couple of weeks after auditions are due,” Perez explained.
This year’s event held special significance, as it marked the 40th anniversary of the Class C All-State Band. To commemorate the milestone, organizers commissioned composer Larry MacTaggart to create an original work for the Wind Ensemble.
The piece, titled, “Never Forget,” carried deep historical and personal meaning. Inspired by World War II and the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, as well as the composer’s connection to his wife’s uncle - a prisoner of war in Germany - the composition offered students a powerful musical experience.
Adding to the uniqueness of the event, MacTaggart attended rehearsals and worked directly with the ensemble. “The composer came to work with the conductor and the musicians on how to perform the piece with his vision in mind,” Perez said. “To be able to do a world premiere of a piece is an experience that many musicians do not get to have, so it was really unique for my students to be a part of it.”
Performing a piece written specifically for the honor band gave students a rare glimpse into the creative process behind music composition. According to Perez, the experience allowed students to better understand the dedication and thought that goes into crafting a musical work.
Beyond the performance itself, the impact of the All-State experience extends into students’ personal and musical growth. “I think that students get to experience performing music at a high level with other great musicians throughout the state,” Perez said. “It pushes them to be better musicians and leaders for themselves, but also our own band at EMF.”
With competing at Class C All-State, EMF’s band program has taken an important step forward, setting the stage for continued growth and excellence for years to come.
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