Both students, who are members of the marching and concert bands at NBHS, auditioned twice to have the distinction of being in the All-State Jazz Band alongside hundreds of other members from schools across the state. The announcement was made just before Thanksgiving, according to district officials.
The big picture
“This was my goal for high school band,” Guzman said of earning the All-State Jazz Band nod. “I am passionate about jazz, so this was really exciting for me.”
The high school band students who make the cut perform during the annual Texas Music Educators Association Clinic/Convention in February at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, according to a news release.
Guzman, who has previously made the All-State concert band, said he is looking forward to the TMEA clinic.
“Having the opportunity to play with a band that good is just awesome,” he said. “I am just so excited.”
Bachman placed third in the state in jazz guitar, and said he was excited when he learned he made the All-State Jazz Band as an alternate, according to a news release.
“I really just couldn’t believe it,” he said. “It was such stiff competition, and it made me really proud.”
Diving in deeper
The audition material requires students to practice outside of school and be self-motivated. Bachman said he feels the entire process has helped him grow as a musician and band member, according to a news release.
“I just really can’t wait to be on stage and hear everybody,” Guzman added.
