Mid-State and All-State attendees chosen
Mention the words “All-State” or "Mid- State” to any band or chorus member and their eyes suddenly glaze over. Some student may start shaking and say things like “I am so nervous , I’ll never make it.” Why these major jitters? In order to make any of the honor band or choir programs, one has to audition.
When the big day finally arrives, the students play or sing prepared pieces for the judge (whom they can’t see), and then they have to play or sing scales and sight-read. It doesn’t sound so hard... does it?
One band student gave me some scenarios that went through her mind. “I could forget my instrument, lose my music, forget my scales, mess up on my prepared pieces, oversleep.... the list goes on.”
A CHS chorus student has different things to worry about. “I am so afraid my voice will crack, or I will be out of tune... my stomach gets sick just thinking about it,” said a junior. Officials on the committee send the band or chorus director music that has to be prepared before the competition. Many weeks are spent practicing the musical pieces, making sure it is perfect. After students are ranked on how well they play, the top players receive a place in first or second bands depending on grade levels. This is an honor because only the best of the best are chosen to play.
The students who make Mid-State or All state, heave a big sigh of relief. The people who don’t... well freshman Katie Coe put it this way about past experiences auditioning,” At least I had the guts to go and audition. I walked away with a feeling of self-worth. Even though I didn’t make it , I was proud of my self because I had at least tried.”
A few weeks later, the musician is given music to practice for the big concert. Sometime after Christmas, the students go to MTSU to perform, and spend an entire day practicing. Usually, the bands are directed by professors of music or elite band directors.
Sophomore Callie Malone says,”I am so glad that I tried out. I was nervous but I made it. I met so many new people. People from all over Middle Tennessee tried out and the ones that make it... well they’re your family for a few days. Mid-Sate isn’t about how nervous someone was when they tried out, or what their score was. It’s about people from every kind of background coming together because they love music.”
