As music department expands, students prepare for All-State

After spending hours perfecting each note and complex rhythm, students sent in their audition CDs with high hopes. This year, 20 students from Saratoga High were admitted into All-State Band and Orchestra out of over 2,000 CD applications that were submitted.

“This accomplishment represents years of hard work, preparation and love for their craft on the part of these students,” music director Michael Boitz said.

Students were scheduled to travel to Fresno on Feb. 16 and will arrive home on Feb. 19. Although they will miss two days of school, most students say it is worth it.

“I have to make up some work, but I wouldn’t give up these three days of music,” senior violist Carolynn Choi said.

During these three days, students in All-State Orchestra will rehearse “The Firebird Suite” by Igor Stravinsky and “Elevator Music” by Graeme Koehne.

“We have to play for many hours in a row, but I learn a lot about rehearsing music,” junior trumpeter Michael Shang said. “The music is great.”

All-State participants also have the opportunity to meet other students similar to them, and friendships quickly develop during this short time period.

“It’s a great way to meet musicians from all over California,” Choi said. “I’m excited to meet new violists this year.”

Students who are not participating in All-State will also have the chance to meet new musicians when the incoming freshmen arrive next fall. Boitz predicts a five to 10 percent increase in music department members next year, which translates to at least a dozen more students in both orchestra and band. Currently, there are about 500 students total in the music department.

“Next year, I’m toying with the idea of having a freshman band and a freshman orchestra simply because the numbers are so big,” Boitz said.

An increase in the number of musicians may call for the music department to be re-organized.

“The more kids that are involved in the arts, making music using the creative side of the brain, the better,” Boitz said. “Students have an outlet to challenge themselves intellectually and artistically, so it is an important part of the day.”