A number of GPS musicians traveled to Knoxville to audition for the All-East and All-State Orchestras. Competing with the best high school musicians in East Tennessee, five GPS students were selected for the All-East Orchestra and Band, and three of them had scores high enough to be invited to attend All-State Band and Orchestra at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, April 13-16.
At the end of the auditions, three made the 9/10 All-East Orchestra: Margaret Lim, 1st violin and 1st stand; Sophia Guan, 1st violin; and Lynn Mai, viola. Both Lim and Guan were also selected for All-State.
After auditions for the 11/12 All-East Orchestra, Lori Baxter was named principal viola for the third year in a row and selected All-State. Jennifer Brockman was selected for the Blue Band for the third year as well. Named alternates were Brianna House, 9/10 Band saxophone; and Sarah Goodrich and Lauren Milner, 11/12 Band flutes.
“The personal audition requires hours of practice outside of school ensembles,” says GPS Orchestra Director Mary Baxter. “I’m delighted with the three All-State players, the Blue Band, and the personal achievements of each these girls.”
The All-East Orchestra and Band will perform in concert on Feb. 6 for the East Tennessee State Band and Orchestra Association Senior Clinic in Gatlinburg at the Park Vista Hotel.