Alyssa Kitchens
Two Lufkin High School juniors advanced to All-State as musicians. Alyssa Kitchens placed Texas All-State on clarinet and Allie Pierce in choir.
“Thousands compete and very few make it. This is a big deal,” said George Little, Lufkin High School Band Director.
Alyssa credits her success with practicing her piece when it was first given to her in July.
“I practiced almost every day but I didn’t expect to make it,” said Alyssa.
She also comes from a line of musicians in her family. Her grandfather taught her to play the guitar, and she has always enjoyed playing music.
Allie hasn’t been involved in choir since 7th grade and came in this year. She attributes her success to the support of her choir teachers and lots of sight reading.
“Diction was hard. My teachers had a lot of patience, and my mom and dad who heard me through the door sing over and over again,” said Allie.
Allie Pierce
Allie and another student from Longview were the only two selected for the All-State choir from our region.
With All-State around the corner, both girls are busy and have little time to take off after their accomplishment.
“I’m in swim and in theater and have three pieces to learn for All-State,” said Allie.
“We have no time to take off. I have to keep practicing,” said Alyssa.
Both girls will be going to state on February 9 – 12 at the Texas Music Education Association Convention where the All-State Ensemble program will perform at the Lila Cockrell Theater in San Antonio.
PHOTOS BY: ANDY ADAMS/Lufkin ISD