Freshman Ryan Wilson, sophomore Brooke Rice, junior Sergio Quintana and senior Emily Strenski traveled to Graham to compete for a spot in the All-Region band on Saturday. Strenski took second chair in the second band and Quintana took second chair in the top band and is advancing to the area competition Jan. 11. 

“I was really surprised to see how well I did,” Quintana said. “I’m going to practice really hard because now that I’ve made area, I want to go all the way.”

All bands performed Christmas carols at Christmas on the Square for the community this past Thursday. The event also doubled as the bands’ Christmas concert.

“I was really excited to play for the town this year,” band director Karen Brunker said. “Usually only high school gets to play on the square, so it was exciting to be able to bring all my bands this year.”

The sixth grade performed first followed by the JCAT band. The high school band then joined up with eighth grade to play a song, and then played a concert of their own.

“I had a lot of fun this year,” sophomore Chance Harmon said. “I loved playing on the square.”

Six students auditioned for the All-District band Nov. 2 at Hirschi. Those who auditioned were freshmen Candace and Rebecca Taggart, Wilson sophomore Brooke Rice, Quintana and Strenski. Quintana made first chair on saxophone and Strenski placed fourth chair on trumpet.

“District can be a very tough competition, especially our district,” Mrs. Brunker said. “I’m excited to hear them perform in the All-District band in January.”