Students named to All-State Orchestra

Alex Blaser (oboe) and Spencer Brand (trumpet) performed in the 2011-2012 Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) All-State Orchestra at a concert on August 6 at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph.

To be selected to an All-State Ensemble is the highest honor any high school musician can attain in Minnesota.

Both Blaser and Brand were selected to the ensemble after an audition in March that consisted of a prepared etude, major and minor scales, and sight reading.

Brand is the son of Jeff and Bonnie Brand, and Blaser is the daughter of Todd and Rhonda Blaser.

This year, more than 1,800 students from across the state auditioned for membership into the eight MMEA All-State performing groups.

All-State Orchestra students spent a week at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, working with section coaches, performing in chamber works and performing in the large ensemble.

The conductor of the 2011-2012 All-State Orchestra is Dr. Louis Bergonzi from the University of Illinois. The All-State Orchestra will perform again February 18, 2012 during the MMEA Mid-Winter Music Convention in Minneapolis.

Tags: life, students, orchestra