Holly Students Selected for Prestigious Michigan All State Band

(Holly Area Schools, Jan. 12, 2023)

HOLLY, Mich. – Two Holly High School Bronchos were recently selected for the 2023 Michigan All State Band, a prestigious symphonic band ensemble made up of some of the state’s top-rated student musicians.

Senior Makenzie Barber and sophomore Will Raleigh were selected as members of the 2023 Michigan All State Band from thousands of fellow student musicians from around the state who auditioned for the program. Barber and Raleigh are among nine trombonists from across Michigan who made the final cut.

“I’d like to personally congratulate Makenzie and Will for their exemplary auditions that landed both of them spots on the 2023 Michigan All State Band roster,” said Ben Baldwin, Holly High School director of bands. “Their achievement demonstrates how our music programs help students develop creativity, a strong work ethic and discipline that serve them for a lifetime.”

Barber and Raleigh will perform with the All State Band Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, at the Michigan Music Conference at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. The band will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors prior to the performance. To be accepted to the program, student musicians must prepare a warm-up etude, perform a series of scales and sight-read during a 10-minute recorded audition. An average of about 2,500 students audition each year for the 400 seats in one of the program’s five ensembles.

“Congratulations to Makenzie and Will for this major achievement in the fine arts, which help provide a well-rounded education at Holly Area Schools that develops the leaders of tomorrow,” said Scott Roper, Holly Area Schools superintendent. “Their acceptance to the All State Band is just the latest example of the key role the fine arts play in preparing our Bronchos for real world and success.”

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