This past week, Marvin Koonce ‘21 joined the “best of the best” for the National Association for Music Education 2020 All-National Honor Ensembles (ANHE) Virtual Event, January 7–8, 2021 as the top high school jazz pianist in the nation. The first ever All-National Honor Ensembles virtual event included several rehearsals with Todd Stoll and Terell Stafford, and workshops with renowned clinicians. The recording of the jazz ensemble’s final performance will premiere online in March 2021.
At the district level, six Cary Academy students were selected for the NC Bandmasters Association All-District Ensembles this year, with several 1st or 2nd alternates, and two students who are All-State Honors Band Audition Eligible. Notably, three Middle School students are included in the selection. As Mr. Turner says, “they are already doing BIG things despite starting their Band journey during COVID.”
Selected Ensemble Members from CA:
MS Symphonic Band
- Kenna Zhang ’26 – 12th Chair Clarinet
MS Concert Band
- Liliana Yi ’26 – 1st Chair Flute
- Allen Li ’26 – 2nd Chair Flute
9-10 Wind Ensemble
- Max Li ’23 – 5th Chair Clarinet **All State Eligible**
- Ian Fan ’24 – 16th Chair Clarinet
11-12 Wind Ensemble
- Abby Li ’22 – 3rd Chair Flute **All State Eligible**
Students in the Top 5 Alternate List for their respective Ensembles
Ethan Chou ’22, William Coley ’22, Brianna Laing ’23, Arran Swift ’23, Angelika Wang ’24, and Arran Swift ’23