For the Jazz Band, senior Joseph Hartung received second in the state for trombone, junior Justin Koesterer took fourth in the state for trumpet, and first alternate was senior Thomas Curdt for trombone. Sophomore Christopher Hartung was named as one of the top five for guitarists in the State Jazz Band.

The success reflected positively on the SLUH band program, but took a lot of hard work and determination.

Band teacher Jeff Pottinger credits the success of SLUH’s performance in the qualifiers last Saturday to three things: “Lessons, band camps, and practice.”

“The kids that are making these All State bands are taking lessons, and dedicating time outside of school to practice their instruments,” said Pottinger.

The SLUH band program tries to provide lessons to all of its students, which allows them to get help outside of class. Along with lessons provided at SLUH, there are also numerous band camps around the St. Louis area.

“I was really motivated to practice more, listen to more jazz, and dedicate a lot more time to overall practicing,” Koesterer said, describing his practice routine leading up to the tryouts. Koesterer took time to go through each sheet of music at least twice, and played along with jazz tracks. This dedicated practice took away from time after school, but was rewarded in the long run.

Anxiety was also common factor among the students across the state trying out.

“I took a couple of deep breaths and played like I practiced,” said Koesterer.

As the concert approaches, the students who have qualified for the band begin to put even more time into practicing and learning the music. Leading up to the concert, the band members will meet for a couple of days to practice as a group, and then perform.

The SLUH band students who qualified are filled with anticipation.

“I’ve heard that state is really cool, so I am excited,” said Koesterer.

The concert will take place on Jan. 27 at the Tan-Tar-A resort in the Lake of the Ozarks.