This email is geared toward my dedicated SHS Band practicers with lots of performing experience and are looking for an additional music challenge. To my younger students, this still might be useful information and a goal to work toward in the future.
If you are interested in auditioning for and participating in a regional honor band this year there are some options that we have included for you to consider:
- Oregon Music Educators Association (OMEA) All-State (Jan 16th-19th 2025, Eugene OR)
- Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble
- Very competitive audition and selection
- October 5th audition deadline, notified of acceptance on October 21st
- $358 registration fee if selected, $21 to submit an audition
- Here is a link to the OMEA All-state site, scroll down for audition packets
- All-Northwest Music Educators Conference (Feb 14th-16th 2025, Spokane WA)
- Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble
- Very competitive audition and selection
- October 1st audition deadline, notified of acceptance on November 13
- $340 registration fee if selected, $20 to submit an audition
- Here is a link to the ALl-NW site, scroll down for audition packets
- Information Packet
- WIBC (Western International Band Clinic, Nov 22nd-25th, Seattle WA)
- Four large symphonic bands, less competitive audition than OMEA
- October 11th audition deadline
- Can use OMEA audition tape as WIBC audition tape, there is also separate audition material that can be used instead and more information via this link
- Clinicians this year include Brian Balmages, Randall Standridge, Kevin Day, Robert Sheldon, Bob Ponto, Dennis Llinas!
- Portland State University regional honor band
- December 6th (evening) and 7th (9am-9pm)
- $110, lunch and dinner on Saturday included
- No audition involved, this group will play wind ensemble level music and prepare a concert in two days
- Let Mr. Stai know if you are interested by October 1st
All of these ensembles are fairly competitive to get into. Some of the students in these ensembles spend several months preparing the audition material. I’ve had fantastic students audition and not make the cut for the All-State and All-NW ensembles. The students who auditioned, made the cut, and participated in these honor ensembles have raved about the experience! Regardless, sometimes just going through an audition process is educational in itself, no matter whether you make it in or not.
Sherwood Bands 