A percussionist from McIntosh High has been selected as a member of Georgia’s All-State Jazz Ensemble, the highest honor that a student musician in the state can receive.
Matthew Bihuniak is among 21 high school student musicians in Georgia who have been selected to perform with the group that is made up of the top jazz players in the state. He is one of two players, plus an alternate, selected for the drums section.
Additionally, Roger Callison, a baritone saxophone player from Fayette County High, has been selected as an alternate. Only one principal player is selected for the baritone saxophone section; Callison will perform in his absence if needed. Alternates are selected for each of the 11 sections making up the jazz ensemble.
Being selected for the ensemble is no easy feat. Students must pass two rounds of auditions, going up against others in the state, to prove that they are the best in their instrumental areas.
Bihuniak and the other musicians will perform a special concert in January at The Classic Center in Athens, Georgia.
The All-State Jazz Ensemble is sponsored by the Georgia Music Educators Association.
