Many band students see honors band as an opportunity to do something great with their musical talents, while others surprisingly consider it a waste of time due to the fact that you have to put time into auditioning to get into honors band. In other words, some students don’t want to put in the work.

For honors band the requirements are pretty direct. First, you have to, of course, play an instrument. Second, you audition to get into honors band by playing a selected piece well. Finally, you receive a piece of music that you then have to sight read for the performance. Keep in mind that you can audition on more than one instrument if you desire.

Playing the horn, Berendt has qualified for honors band in all four years that she has been in band, and she looks forward to participating in honors band as well this year.

“Past years in honors band have been fun,” said Berendt. “We’ve had great conductors, like band composer Brian Balmages, and it’s a good atmosphere overall. Everyone wants to be there and works hard.”

Berendt does, in fact, plan to continue playing the French Horn when she graduates and continues to college. The fact that Berendt gets to play higher-level music and engage with other musicians makes her work hard to be part of this great opportunity and experience.

Where will the concert for honors band be held this year you ask? The performance or concert for this year’s honors band will be at Westminster College December 1.

Honors Band is a great opportunity for every musician. Whether you play the flute or the French Horn there is always a place in honors band for talented, hard-working musicians.