On Jan. 10, French horn player Piper Lipscomb, 11, earned a spot in the Texas All-State Band after six months of practicing and auditioning her music. In doing this, she became the only student in MISD to make All-State for band.
“When I saw the results come out, I honestly couldn’t believe it,” Lipscomb said. “I had to look twice to confirm.”
In July, band students received the etudes chosen for them to learn and audition with throughout the fall. Each instrument has three etudes that showcase the player’s technical and lyrical playing skills.
“After I got the etudes, I just practiced with them every chance I could,” Lipscomb said. “It was hard to practice as much as I wanted with homework and marching band, but by Christmas break, I was working on them for hours every day.”
After auditioning and making the district, region and area phases of the competition, Lipscomb prepared to compete against the top musicians in the area.
“There are always some nerves, but I just try to think positively and keep myself busy so they don’t get to me,” Lipscomb said. “I wasn’t sure I was going to make it, but I was proud of how I was playing and knew that no matter the outcome, I did my best.”
Band Director Peyton Lee heard how Lipscomb’s playing progressed throughout the semester, listening and giving comments until right before the final competition.
“I went into the competition thinking ‘I can totally see her making this today,’” Mr. Lee said. “So I was overjoyed and excited, but not surprised. I think she deserves it because of the level of preparation and work she’s done.”
All-State choir, band and orchestra students will attend the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Convention in San Antonio on Feb. 11-14, where they will participate in three days of rehearsals and perform in concert on the last day.
“TMEA is truly transformative,” Mr. Lee said. “Getting to perform in an ensemble of students of the highest ability with world-class conductors and music you would only hear played by the best is so special. I’m so excited for any student that makes it because I know what’s coming.”
On Jan. 29, Lipscomb recorded her etudes for the last time to determine which of the four All-State groups she would play in during TMEA. She placed 20th, earning a spot in the top-performing group.
“I’m really looking forward to playing in an ensemble of all these talented people my age from across the state,” Lipscomb said. “It’s a huge honor to get to go and I’m looking forward to every opportunity the convention will bring.”
