The top musicians in Bayfield have proudly represented the school at state and regional levels over the course of the school year after being nominated by their directors or selected through a highly competitive audition process. These Honor Groups are formed from the best student musicians from many schools, often statewide, providing them with an opportunity to perform under the guidance of distinguished conductors.
This year, Bayfield students are participating in several distinguished Honor Groups, including the Colorado All State Choir and Band, the Colorado Choral Directors Select Choir, the Intermountain League Select Choir, and the Fort Lewis College Honor Bands.
Colorado All State Choir – January 9-11, 2025 – Denver, CO
Isabella Asebedo, an alto, earned a coveted spot in the Colorado All State Choir, following an intense audition process against more than 2,000 other singers from across the state.
“Bella set a goal, worked hard, and overcame obstacles to earn this honor,” said Derek Smith, Bayfield High School's Director of Performing Arts. “She’s truly demonstrated resilience and commitment in her journey.”
Colorado All State Band – April 3-5, 2025 – Greeley, CO
Atlas Burgess, a trombone player, was selected for the Colorado All State Band, one of only sixteen trombonists chosen statewide.
“Atlas has been a strong player on trombone for years, taking leadership roles here at Bayfield and in regional honor bands ever since he joined,” Smith remarked.
Colorado Choral Directors Select Choir – November 18, 2024 – Grand Junction, CO
A group of Bayfield students were nominated by Mr. Smith to participate in the Colorado Choral Directors Select Choir. These students performed alongside the best singers from the Western Slope region, including the first performance at Colorado Mesa University’s Astoria Concert Hall. The following Bayfield students were selected:
- Isabella Asebedo – Soprano
- Kailey Coley – Soprano
- Mya Miller – Alto
- Lainey Potthoff – Alto
- Ayden Martinez – Alto
Intermountain League Select Choir – January 16, 2025 – Cortez, CO
In January, Bayfield students participated in the Intermountain League Select Choir, which brings together top musicians from across the league, including schools in Cortez, Pagosa Springs, Monte Vista, Centauri, Alamosa, and Bayfield. The event featured several combined band sections. Bayfield students who participated include:
- Flute: Mikayla Cassady, Alexis Laurel
- Oboe: Jonas Gerrits
- Clarinet: Isabella Asebedo, Ayden Martinez, Alexander Curtsinger
- Bass Clarinet: Abby Lischke
- Alto Saxophone: Tristan Bennett, Elliot Willie
- Tenor Saxophone: Delilah Zink
- Trumpet: Easton Wills
- French Horn: Hudson Gerrits
- Trombone: Lilly Chavez
- Tuba: Cooper Beeman
- Percussion: Parker Perkerewicz, Autumn Schulz
Fort Lewis College Honor Bands – February 7-8, 2025 – Durango, CO
Bayfield students also auditioned for the highly competitive Fort Lewis College Honor Bands, with approximately 500 audition tapes being considered from students across Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. The Blue Band is selective, and the Skyhawk Band is highly competitive, according to Mr. Smith. The following Bayfield students were selected:
- Blue Band:
- Flute: Mikayla Cassady
- Clarinet: Ayden Martinez, Alexander Curtsinger
- Alto Saxophone: Tristan Bennett
- Tenor Saxophone: Delilah Zink
- Trombone: Lilly Chavez
- Percussion: Parker Perkerewicz, Autumn Schulz
- Skyhawk Band:
- Alto Saxophone: Jonas Gerrits, Elliot Willie
- Trombone: Atlas Burgess
- Tuba: Cooper Beeman
These Honor Groups provide students with the opportunity to hone their skills, collaborate with peers from other schools, and perform challenging music under expert guidance. For many students, participating in these events is a pivotal experience that fuels their passion for music and strengthens their discipline.
