Due to their notable musicality and skill, four orchestra members have been selected by the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) for positions in one of the All-State orchestras. Freshman Edward Cho, juniors Joseph Kim and Belle Ra and senior Jason Tsai will attend the TMEA convention on Feb. 13, 2016 in San Antonio.

“It feels awesome to go to all-state again,” cellist Ra said. “I went last time and it was an amazing experience. I feel really honored to be selected again.”

All-State is the highest honor a fine arts music student can receive. In Texas, around 1,600 are selected to perform in one of the 15 orchestra, band or choir ensembles. The process is lengthy and competitive.

“You have to work really hard. I sacrificed a lot of my school work because I was practicing,” Ra said. “It won’t really work out unless you really want it.”

The All-State audition process leads to qualification in one of three orchestras, which include the string, symphony and philharmonic orchestras. They will perform at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, where the convention will take place. But before that, the qualifiers rehearse for three days straight.

“(At rehearsals), we only (get) breaks for eating,” Ra said. “But it is really fun because I love music and everyone around you loves music too. We inspire each other and I feel inspired by everyone so it is worth it.”

Making All-State stands as the highest achievement. Members trying out must go through many steps before reaching the end. This has led to Ra, as well as Tsai, potentially wanting to pursue music in college.

“(Some colleges)  have scholarships for those who have made it to the state level,” Tsai said. “I might look to minor in music. I will definitely keep it up.”

Ra’s parents are both music educators, and she has been playing the cello for over 10 years.

“(My parents) give me a lot of inspiration and they support me no matter what,” Ra said. “They give me a lot of encouragement and so that motivates me.”

Tsai and Ra have both reached the All-State level before, leaving them with experience and advice for other orchestra players wanting to reach that level.

“Have confidence in yourself,” Tsai said. “Know that you have worked really hard for what you want to achieve. It will pay off.”