Eight Austin High School students were recognized for musical excellence Feb. 16 when they participated in the Minnesota Music Educators Association All-State music program.

“The rehearsals and performances are an opportunity for the best-of-the-best from all over the state to come together and make truly amazing music,” said Brad Mariska, AHS band director. “This is the highest honor a high school music student can achieve and the students, school, and community should be proud to have as students as we do representing Austin in such a prestigious program.”

Choir students selected for the program this year were Ethan Johnson, Molly Kestner, Melissa Navoa and Joy Riley. Band students included Matt Tylutki (trumpet), Joe Gerber (oboe) and Sam Ogilvie (trombone). Jiyoon Shin (violin) was selected for orchestra.

Each student auditioned in March 2012 and learned the results in May. They participated in a week-long All-State music camp in August and returned for additional rehearsals and a concert this past weekend as part of the MMEA Mid-Winter Clinic.

“There is a lot of practice that goes into a successful All-State music audition,” Mariska said. “The selectivity of the ensembles is telling not only of the students’ innate talent but also a reflection of their work ethic and personal pride.”

Each year, more than 2,000 of the state’s best musicians audition for membership to the All-State program, with about 575 selected for the various ensembles.