February 9, 2016 - Several Tenaha High School band students attended the Region 21 UIL Region Solo & Ensemble contest at Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches on February 6th. This event is a competition where individual band members compete against a set standard on his/her individual instrument and/or in a small ensemble. At this event, students earn a rating from 1-5 (1 being the best).
Three soloist and two small ensembles (consisting of 10 total students) received a division 1 at the region level, and are advancing to Texas State Solo & Ensemble Contest in Pflugerville on Saturday May 28th. This is the most students Tenaha ISD has ever had advance to the state solo & ensemble contest.
The following students will be advancing to state:
Jakedrick Rountree- class 1 marimba solo (memorized), Ruben Hernandez- class 1 trumpet solo (memorized), Jacob Samford- class 1 trombone solo (memorized), a woodwind quartet consisting of Janeth Trejo, Crystal McDonald, Ariday Hernandez, & Zayda Hernandez. A brass quintet consisting of Jaurmez Brock, Ruben Hernandez, Sarai Valencia, Jacob Samford, & Martravian Williams.
Earning a division one on any solo or ensemble entry at the region level takes a great amount of time and effort that is already stretched thin between the other activities these students participate in. However, to earn a chance to compete on the state level takes maturity, motivation, and commitment that certainly warrants respect and praise. Please find a moment to congratulate these state-advancing band students for their continued dedication and success. I also want to say “THANK YOU” to the admin, coaches, staff, and parents for supporting all the band students through allotting time and resources for them to practice and compete.
