continued from page throughout the ….

continued from page

throughout the state to attend a three-day band festival at the college. Participants are nominated by their band director, then complete an audition process to determine if they will be selected to showcase their abilities in the band, which is one of the premier honor band experiences in the Southeast. “Being chosen reflects their musicianship, preparation, and commitment,” Toombs Middle School Band Director Ashley Akridge explained.

Toombs County Middle School Participants included 8th Grader Cason Bell (Trumpet), 8th Grader Austin Casteo (Trombone), 8th Grader Jacqueline Cornejo (Flute), 7th Grader Jaylin Cardwell (Trumpet), 7th Grader Loretta DeLoach (Clarinet), 7th Grader Juliette Lucas (Flute), 7th Grader Kamila Morales (Clarinet), and 7th Grader Angelina Santiz (Flute).

The students worked with conductors to perfect several musical pieces before performing in Hodgson Hall at the University of Georgia Performing Arts Center, which has hosted numerous professional and world-class performances.

“It was an incredible experience and an important milestone in their musical journey,” Akridge emphasized. “Throughout the festival, students worked with master conductors, were challenged at a high level, and represented our school with pride and professionalism. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the way they rose to the occasion.”