Students enjoy All State Music Festival

On Nov. 15-17, music students from all over the state of Iowa went to Iowa State University to take part in the Iowa All State Music Festival.

To be accepted into All State, auditioners prepare for months before auditioning to be part of the all state band, choir or orchestra with some of the best musicians in the state of Iowa.

This year, the school had 11 students selected to attend. These students come from all different areas of music, with four choir students selected, five band and two orchestra students. It was a full weekend for the students, with hours of rehearsals, college fairs to visit, stand up stores to shop at, and fun activities to do with other students from Bettendorf.

Three of the students selected to attend All State had a variety of things they were eager to share. Junior Alex Obert, who was selected for the All State Choir, said, “I’m most excited for performing with the entire group and hearing the sound we produce.”

Minori Peters, a senior who was selected for the All State Band, was thrilled about being able to attend with her friends.

“I’m excited to spend time with my friends and immerse myself in an atmosphere where everyone is really passionate about what they are doing, and wants to be there,” Peters said.

Junior Peter Hurd, selected for the All State Orchestra, was enthusiastic about performing a specific song.

“I’m most excited about the music I’ll get to play; we are playing an amazing piece by a fantastic American composer, ‘An American In Paris’ by George Gershwin. It will be really fun to play because it is a classical piece that features influences from other genres,” Hurd said.

Hurd and Peters had some advice for other musicians.

“Whether you are in band, orchestra or choir I highly suggest auditioning for all state because whether you think you’re gonna get in or not, it will only make you a better musician,” Hurd said.

“I’d recommend trying out for All State to anyone who want to experience a completely different side to music. It is a very competitive and stressful experience, but I believe that you come out stronger from it. Also, you get to really bond with your teachers and friends and get to know them in a way you’ve never gotten to before,” Peters said.

The All State Choir, Band, and Orchestra performed on Nov. 17; the concert was aired on Iowa Public Television on Thanksgiving and can be found on YouTube.

All State Students