Two DHS Students Make All-State Band

students Chelsea McFarland and Julianna Eidle have been named to the all-state concert band for ninth and 10th graders.

Band director Megan Williams said, "This is an incredible accomplishment! It has been a decade since a Decatur High School student made the Georgia All State band."

Both students are tenth-graders. Cheslea, a horn player, was named first chair and Julianna, who plays flute, made fifth chair.

In addition, Nathaniel Woolf, a seventh-grader at Renfroe Middle School, made the all-state band for his grade level. He plays oboe.

Williams said 14 Decatur High students competed for spots in the Georgia All-State Concert and Symphonic Bands.  

"Both girls had to play two rounds of auditions, competing against thousands of students from around the state," she said. "They had to prepare high level music and fundamental exercises as well as having to sight read music for a score. 

"After competing in both rounds, both girls were absolutely ecstatic to be named to the band.  It is the highest honor a high school musician can achieve in Georgia."

The students will next go to Savannah in early March to perform with all-state ensembles. Williams said she hopes band backers will contribute to defray costs. The three-day trip will cost each student about $400, plus food.

If anyone wants to contribute, contact Williams at mwilliams@csdecatur.net.