On Saturday, February 20^th, Head Band Director Cari Martin and Assistant Band Director Weston Fisher traveled to Waco H. S. for the Solo and Ensemble competition with a group of hardworking students who have been practicing for weeks.

    Stephen Davenport (11) played a saxophone solo. Bethany Guest (10) and Kristen Gore (9) each played clarinet solos.  Megan Cockerham (11), Caitlyn Chandler (10), Erica Villa (10), Natalie Yeaman (11), Brandy Dixon (11), and Kassandra Stafford (8) played in flute ensembles.  Chase Walker (9) and Karl Stafford (10) played trumpet solos, and Renee Looney (11) played a memorized piano piece.

    Renee Looney received a division 1 rating for her piano piece, and will play at the State competition later this year. “Solo and Ensemble was so much fun! I was really nervous, and to top it all off the judge left before I got to perform my piece. Mrs. Martin pulled through and found another judge to listen to me. I’m so thankful for Mrs. Martin and this opportunity to compete. I’m can’t wait for state!” she said.   

    Natalie Yeaman, Brandy Dixon, and Kassandra Stafford received a division 1 rating for their flute ensemble, and will be advancing to State. “This was my first ensemble, so I was extremely nervous. We had been working really hard for several months, and we knew our music well. I was just scared that I’d mess up or get off beat, but we played really good. It wasn’t our best, but it was enough to advance.  Our judge was really nice. She gave us tips to help improve so we can play at the state level.  Participating in this event took a lot of hard work and hours, but it all paid off. I can’t wait to participate in State, and now that I know what to expect, I know we’ll do great,” said Brandy Dixon. 
     Bethany Guest also received a division 1 rating for her clarinet and received a medal. However, because her music was not at a specific level of difficulty, she will not advance to state later in May. “Even though I can’t advance to a further level, I’m happy with what I accomplished. Now that I know what to expect and I know receiving a division one is something I’m completely capable of doing, I’m going to pick a different piece for next year, so I can try to advance to the next level of this competition,” she said.