District and state music auditions were held on Nov. 2 at Hays High. Students sang excerpts from three songs for their audition.

The auditions were blind auditions, so the judges sat turned away from the person trying out so they did not see them.

Students who tried out had an opportunity to make district or state, though it is more difficult to make state.

Sophomore Courtney Ellis said auditions can be intimidating but they are worth the experience.

“I enjoy doing it every year because it’s just another way to improve my singing,” Ellis said.

Ellis isn’t the only student who believes auditions can be hard work.

“Auditions are very rigorous, yet it is worth all the practicing, frustration, and time,” junior Alex Crowley said.

Crowley said making it into district can be a great opportunity.

“If you make it, it’s awesome,” Crowley said. “You earn the privilege to perform with great musicians who share the same passion that you do.”

For freshman Kristen Nease, this was her first year trying out vocally.

“Auditions were very fun this year even though I was a little nervous,” Nease said. “I can’t wait to see who makes it. I have had a fun experience learning the songs and meeting new people.”

Senior Raeanna Peacock qualified last year for state choir as well as district.

“There are no words great enough to describe the experience at state,” Peacock said.

15sberens@usd489.com