All State - All Star

Learning 4 songs, on one's own, for the trombone. Difficult. But she did it. Waking up at 5:00 a.m. to get ready. Difficult. But she did it. Getting on a bus full of students from other schools, knowing no one to sit by. Difficult. But she did it. Going to Higley AZ, still not knowing anyone, and meeting tons of new people from around the state. Difficult. But she did it. Playing the trombone all day, until her lips felt like they were going to puff up and float away, and having only a small lunch break, and two tiny potty breaks. Difficult. But she did it. And the result was amazing!!! Rebekah was chosen as the only sixth grader from our school to represent her band at the All State Festival of Performance. There were approximately 128 members of the All State 6th grade band. There were 12 trombonists in Rebekah's section, and she wasn't the only girl! They practiced their music separately and then practiced together for the first time on Saturday under the band director, Jill Mahoney. Jill Mahoney actually teaches in the Peoria District, but formerly taught at Marshall Ranch Elementary. They performed four songs: Latin Fiesta, Overlords, Maesong, and The Red, the White, and the Blues. Of the four, Overlords was Rebekah's favorite (mine too), having a rather upbeat feel. The Red, the White, and the Blues was fun too, as it combined classic American songs like Yankee Doodle Dandy, America the Beautiful, and You're a Grand Old Flag with a contemporary sound and blues accents. We were able to sit in the 3rd row, just below the trombone section, which was really fun to be able to see Rebekah that close up. They sounded great, and she looked beautiful! When I asked her what was the best part about her day, she responded that it was nice to listen to a trumpet section, who cared about being in the band, and played their very best. She was among some of the best band members in the state, she being one of them. I really liked what the director, Jill Mahoney, said at the end. She told the kids that it had been a delight to work with them, and that they are the leaders in their school band, and that now they have a responsibility to go back to their schools and lead out even more. It was an exhausting, and a long day for Rebekah, but I'm glad that she had the opportunity to go and to grow from the experience. We're proud of you Rebekah!