Seven talented music students from Whitefish High School were selected to attend the prestigious All-State Music Festival in Billings, Montana, showcasing their exceptional skills and dedication to their craft. These young musicians spent two intensive days rehearsing with world-class conductors, culminating in a captivating concert performance that left audiences in awe.

Elevating the State's Musical Landscape

Exceptional Talent, Exceptional Opportunity

The All-State Music Festival is a highly competitive event that brings together the most talented young musicians from across the state of Montana. The selection process is rigorous, with students submitting audition recordings in June for a committee to review. Those who are chosen are recognized as being among the best in the state, a testament to their hard work, dedication, and exceptional musical abilities.The Whitefish High School students who were selected to participate in the festival represent a diverse range of musical disciplines, including band, orchestra, and choir. From junior Bjorn Bungener on trombone to senior Kira Raines on French horn, and from sophomore bassist Marlis Nargi-Bass to choir members like senior Scarlet Burke and freshman Madeline Spear, these young artists have proven themselves to be true musical prodigies.

Collaborative Excellence and Personal Growth

The All-State Music Festival provides these students with a unique opportunity to collaborate with their peers, who share their passion for music and their commitment to their craft. Under the guidance of world-class conductors, the students engage in intensive rehearsals, pushing themselves to new heights and honing their skills to perfection."The students gain experience collaborating with musicians who are dedicated and take their craft as seriously as they do," said Matthew King, the Whitefish High School band instructor. "It can be life-changing and something they will remember forever."The festival also serves as a valuable learning experience for the instructors, who attend clinics and workshops presented by master teachers from around the country. This allows them to return to their classrooms with renewed energy and practical tools to enhance their teaching, ensuring that the musical excellence of Whitefish High School continues to thrive.

A Prestigious Honor, a Lasting Impact

The All-State Music Festival is a unique event in the world of music education, as it brings together the best young musicians from across the state, regardless of their school's size or classification. This level of competition and collaboration is unparalleled, and the students who are selected to participate are truly the cream of the crop."The honor of making these groups truly distinguishes these students as among the best in the state," said King. "Just preparing the auditions alone is a big undertaking and achievement."For the Whitefish High School students, this experience will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their musical journeys. They will carry the lessons they've learned and the connections they've made with them as they continue to hone their skills and pursue their passions in the world of music.