For junior Corwin Olave, music has been a huge part of his high school experience and this year marked a milestone in his journey as a trumpet player. The All-State Band recognizes some of the top student musicians in the state. He has auditioned multiple times throughout his high school career so this felt very rewarding to him.
Olave first auditioned for the All-State Band his freshman year but unfortunately did not get in. Although he didn’t audition his sophomore year, he came back fully focused and determined to get in for his junior year. The audition experience was very different for students than the previous years. Instead of the audition being in person, students were supposed to submit a recording of them playing at their home schools.
Olave described the standard audition pieces as difficult in which they required a strong, precise technique and musicality. Going into the audition, Olave felt some nerves, but his preparation helped him remain calm. He had expressed that because he practiced extensively, he felt confident in his ability to perform well. Instead of overthinking his music, he focused on the music he had rehearsed over and over again and that mindset paid off because it earned him a spot in the All-State Band.
Olave stated, “I knew that I could play my pieces, so I wasn’t trying to overthink it. Just play.”
Once he was selected into the band, he was able to join the other musicians for some intense rehearsals. Olave was required to attend the two-day rehearsals which were from about 8:20am-5:30pm. Despite the demanding schedule, he found the experience to be challenging as well as rewarding. Olave also explained their conductor was very efficient while also being able to keep the musicians’ skills sharp.
Olave stated, “Our conductor was also really efficient with getting into the nitty gritty, but also keeping our chops alive.”
The final performance was the highlight of the experience. The concert was described as a huge success that showed how well the band prepared in such a short amount of time. Getting the opportunity to perform alongside highly skilled musicians pushed him to grow as a player as well as a musician.
Making All-State Band was more than just an accomplishment for Olave, it was proof that consistent practice, confidence, and perseverance can lead to success. As he continues his high school music career, this experience will always be something for him to look back on and remind himself of how far his dedication and craft took him and will continue to take him in the future.
