by Rebecca Wicks
The Cabrillo Middle School is proud to announce five of its students have been selected through audition to be participants in the 2021 California All-State Honor Band, part of the annual California All- State Music Education Conference (CASMEC). Students chosen include Bea Barnes (Horn), Lucca Boccali (Tuba) Emily Gonzalez (Trumpet), Brynn Gray (Trumpet), and Kiran Maserang (Oboe).
“It’s a great honor to be selected and we are more than proud of these students,” said Mr. Mario Boccali, music director for the Cabrillo Middle School Music Department. “It’s definitely been one of the most challenging times in recent history for all musicians – young and old – and these students have definitely proven their dedication and perseverance.”
Each fall, thousands of students audition for the opportunity to participate in one of the CASMEC All-State Honor Ensembles which include All-State Bands, Orchestras, and Choirs. Traditionally, selected students travel to Fresno, Calif. in February from all over the state to participate in a four-day conference which includes a rigorous schedule of rehearsals, classes and concerts. This year because of COVID-19, the conference is scheduled to take place virtually.
The Cabrillo Middle School Music has a long history of its students being selected for this high honor, with students being chosen each year for 15 years running.
The Music Department at Cabrillo Middle School is directed by Mr. Mario Boccali and Mr. Gabriel Garnett and works to bring together music-making and the academic learning of music in the areas of composition, performance, music history and music theory. The department offers a variety of ensembles for every student – from those who have never played an instrument to those who enter the program with years of experience. Students learn music fundamentals and how to work hard and succeed as a group to produce great results. The program aims to provide a positive and fun environment where music students have the opportunity to participate in clinics with music professionals and perform at music festivals and other fun events throughout the community. The school’s top groups perform at nationally adjudicated festivals each year on the annual Spring Tour.
About Cabrillo Music Boosters – An all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, the Cabrillo Music Boosters serves to support Cabrillo Middle School’s vibrant award-winning music program. The Music Boosters’ primary function is to support the music program in several ways, the most important being fundraising. The CMS Boosters help to pay for new instruments, uniforms, new sheet music, music tutors for beginning band students, and transportation expenses for festival performances. To donate to or learn more about the program, go to: https://sites.google.com/view/cabrillomiddleschoolmusic/.
