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All-State music event celebrates excellence with gala concert finale

The moon rises behind the KWHS pep band during the 2019 Oil Bowl at NCHS on Friday, October 11, 2019. (Dan Cepeda, Oil City File)

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — More than 450 high school musicians from across Wyoming gathered in Cheyenne for the annual All-State music event, running Jan. 19–21. The event — sponsored by the Wyoming High School Activities Association, or WHSAA, and the Wyoming Music Educators Association — provides students with high-quality rehearsal and performance opportunities.

The festivities began Sunday with an opening concert at the Cheyenne Civic Center, 510 W. 20th St. The event culminates Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. with the GALA Concert, featuring the All-State Band, Orchestra and Choir. Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for K–12 students.

Students auditioned in the fall to earn spots in the All-State ensembles. To qualify, they met strict criteria, including enrollment in corresponding school music groups and adherence to WHSAA eligibility requirements. Auditions involved recorded performances, submitted during a designated window in November.

Esteemed conductors are leading the ensembles. Dr. Peter Boonshaft of Hofstra University directs the All-State Band, Julie Ullery-Sorensen conducts the Orchestra and Dr. Kristina MacMullen of Baylor University leads the Choir.

Throughout the event, students are immersed in rehearsals and activities at Cheyenne South High School and the Civic Center. Chair placements began early Monday, followed by intensive rehearsals and an evening of student activities hosted by Laramie County Community College. Tuesday’s schedule includes final rehearsals and exhibit visits before the evening concert.


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