On Saturday, Dec. 4, the Hays High orchestra visited Dodge City for a district orchestra event. Five schools were in attendance: Beloit, Dodge City, Garden City, Great Bend and Hays.

Hays High brought 20 students who had to audition for their spot in the group. The group was comprised of nine freshman, three sophomores, six juniors and two seniors.

“District orchestra is important because it is an honor auditioned group that students need to make it into in order to move on to audition for the All-State Honors Orchestra,” Hays Middle School orchestra teacher Nathan Mark said.

The event gave many Hays High students the opportunity to collaborate with other musicians in their skill set.

“The best part [of district orchestra] was getting over my stage fright and getting to present all of the hard work to the audience,” freshman Caleb King said.

Students also enjoyed the social aspect of the event.

“My favorite part about district orchestra is getting to make new friends and work with other people,” sophomore Evyn Cox said.

Sophomore Brendan Stults agreed with Cox.

“The most enjoyable part of district orchestra is learning the music together and meeting the people from all the other schools,” Stults said.

24jfeyerherm@usd489.com