Band isn’t just a class for the dedicated musicians of Carroll County Schools, it's a commitment. This year, students have pushed themselves well beyond the classroom, earning top honors, traveling across state lines, and even performing with national-level ensembles. Their dedication to practice, performance, and personal growth is striking all the right chords.
“This year has been incredible,” said Carroll County Band Director Eric Allen. “Our students have worked tirelessly to improve not only as musicians but as individuals. The growth we’ve seen is remarkable.”
Honor Band Highlights
In January, several students participated in elite honor bands, including the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky.
David Zeitz and Aiden Lilley attended the U of L Honor Band, a two-day immersive experience that left a lasting impression on David. “It was my first time on campus, and I really liked the environment,” he said. “Dr. Ackland was my band director, and she talked to me the most. It gave me a chance to put myself out there and think about college.”
Meanwhile, Shelby Hilebrandt blazed her own trail by participating in three separate band experiences—each on her own. From the National FFA Band in October to solo visits at Campbellsville University and the University of Alabama, she embraced the challenge of stepping outside her comfort zone.
“Alabama was the most intimidating,” Shelby shared. “It was three different bands and over 200 people. It was competitive, but I learned a lot and met so many new people. It made me even more interested in music education.”
Geoffrey Hash and Amaya Owens represented Carroll County at the WKU Honor Band. Geoffrey also performed at the prestigious KMEA All-State Band held at Louisville’s Galt House. The All-State experience, a week-long event packed with rehearsals, performances, and interactions with world-class music educators, was unforgettable.
“I worked with a retired director from the University of Michigan,” Geoffrey said. “He was amazing. We had two-hour rehearsals, performances across the city, and even got to check out percussion ensembles and college exhibits. The whole thing was just incredible.”
Geoffrey also placed first in the district auditions, earning him a spot at the state-level audition held in Elizabethtown. “It was nerve-wracking,” he said. “But it was worth it.”
Solo & Ensemble Success
This year’s Solo and Ensemble Festival also showcased the talent and determination of Carroll County musicians. Shelby, Geoffrey, and Lydia Risk teamed up for a duet and walked away with a Distinguished rating—the highest available.
“It was a really independent process,” said Allen. “I helped choose the pieces, but they did the rest. I try to pick something just beyond their current ability so they’re stretched—but still able to succeed.”
Performers received live feedback from judges, something Shelby says was both helpful and encouraging. “The judges were very nice,” she said. “They gave us tips right after we played so we could learn right away.”
Assessment & State Festival Qualification
In one of the more memorable moments of the year, the Carroll County Concert Band qualified for the KMEA State Concert Band Festival this spring—but not before a little playful misdirection from their director. After performing for a panel of three judges and tackling a tough sight-reading piece, Allen gathered the students and delivered the news with a straight face, leading several to believe they hadn’t done well. Frustration and disappointment began to show on a few faces—until the twist.
“He told us we got a proficient in sight-reading, but we could have done better,” said French Horn player Alley Lefever.
Then he dropped the surprise that they actually scored a distinguished overall and were headed to state.
“Yeah,” Allen chuckled, “I sandbagged them. I gave them a tough piece and made them think they blew it—but they nailed it. I’m proud of how they handled the challenge.”
The top rating secured the band a spot at the State Festival in Louisville this May, where college music professors will serve as adjudicators.
More Than Just Music
Throughout the year, students have formed bonds, explored campuses, and grown in confidence.
“At WKU, it was so pretty and welcoming,” said Amaya Owens. “It made me want to go to school there.”
For David, Shelby, Geoffrey, Amaya, and so many others, band has become more than just notes on a page—it’s a path to their future.
“There’s something special about watching students take ownership of their growth,” Allen said. “They’re doing the hard work. I just help guide them. And this year, they’ve made us all incredibly proud.”