Three Crittenden County students are among the region’s best musicians, and they showcased their talents recently at the Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) First District, All-District Honor Band.
8th grader Charlotte Rogers and juniors Cameron Hernandez and Hunter Kirk earned the honor after devoting countless hours to their craft. High school band director Alex Benoit says the trio worked on music for more than three months, just to audition for a spot.
“They spent
hours practicing the same lines over and over, until they were perfect,” said Benoit.
The honor band is comprised of top musicians from 13 different counties, including Crittenden, Caldwell, Trigg, Lyon, Livingston, Marshall, Calloway, Graves, Fulton, Hickman, Carlisle, Ballard, and, McCracken. Benoit explained that the students auditioned during the fall semester, and were accepted into specific groups. Rogers was in the middle school band, while Kirk and Hernandez were in the concert band (made up of high schoolers). Once accepted, the students participated in All-District Weekend at Paducah Tilghman High School, where students had three days of practice prior to their public performances.
“They were able to join talented musicians across our area and play challenging music,” said Benoit. “This is an amazing musical experience where students always come back as better versions of themselves, both as musicians and people.”
Rogers said the opportunity to make new friends and play with other talented musicians were highlights of her experience, and that she was thankful for the preparation that went into the weekend. “I practiced every day,” she said, “even in extra classes!”
Benoit looks forward to more students getting the opportunity to audition next year. “They come back as better students and leaders in our school,” he said. “They learn what hard work can provide you.”
Follow the CCHS band on their Facebook page at @crittenden.county.bands.